Red Cross earthquake preparedness drive

DIMAPUR, Oct 4: In the wake of portents of a devastating earthquake in the Northeast following a series of six tremors that shook the region during August-September, the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Dimapur Branch, undertook an earthquake preparedness drive in Dimapur on Saturday.

Members of IRCS Dimapur led by their chairman and Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dimapur Maongwati Aier and honorary secretary Inaka Assumi distributed pamphlets containing safety measures and other tips in the event of an earthquake, to motorists and pedestrians here at the busy Deluxe Point intersection.

Some safety measures listed in the pamphlets are as follows:

Before an Earthquake

* Check the stability of your home, school and work place. Check the chimneys, roofs and wall foundations and repair any structurally weak portions and replace loose bricks.
* Teach family members how to switch off gas and electricity mains. Do not overlook younger children while instructing.

* Make an exit plan for the family so that every member knows precisely where to go and what to do during an earthquake. Earthquake drills must be carried out at home, school and at work.

* Keep emergency supply of essentials: clean drinking water, food (dried nuts, biscuits and fruits), a set of warm clothes, blankets, torch, batteries, radio (a must) and a first aid kit. Some money should always be kept at hand in case of emergency when ATM and banks don’t work.

* Ask a relative or friend, preferably in another district or state, to act as a family contact so that if the family members are separated, the phone contact will help in reuniting the family.
During an earthquake

* If in a high rise building, move against an interior wall and protect your head with your arms. Avoid windows and glass panes.

* If outdoors, move away from tree, buildings, electrical poles and wires.

* If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stay in the vehicle. Avoid parking under electricity poles and power lines.

* In a crowded public store or hall, do not panic and rush for the exit. Calmly move away from the crowd and find a safe place. Protect your head with your arms.

* If you take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, hold on to it (legs of a table or chair). Be prepared to move with it and hold your position until the ground stops shaking. THE SENTINEL