preparing For Earthquakes

Even with sophisticated technology it is still very hard to predict where and when an earthquake will hit and its magnitude. And if disaster teams can pinpoint the location of an earthquake the time it has to warn the communal is very short. Earthquakes are sudden and catastrophic events that can cause whole damage and loss of life but if you take precautionary measures you can sacrifice the damage that an earthquake may inflict.

Earthquakes, like many natural disasters, attack swiftly and without much warning. Though the actual event itself is rather brief the havoc and chaos it causes can be long-term. Many fatalities and major injuries occur within minutes after an earthquake strikes due in many cases to lack of first aid supplies, fresh water, food and shelter. Surviving the quake itself is sometimes easier than surviving the hours after while waiting for recovery teams to arrive.

Earthquake & Tsunami In Japan

Since predicting an earthquake is near impossible it is recommended that if you live in an area that is prone to such seismic shifts to have on hand indispensable first aid supplies and an earthquake disaster kit to deal with the immediate aftermath of an earthquake. In the United States the pacific coast is considered part of the infamous "Ring of Fire", a geographic area that includes South America, Indonesia and many Pacific islands and is marked by constantly shifting tectonic plates that cause volcanoes and earthquakes.

If an earthquake strikes chances are the power, electricity and water will be shut off. It can take utility workers days and even weeks to restore power to heavily hit areas so you should all the time have an private disaster kit on hand accident flashlights, cell phones, fresh drinking water and plentifulness of replacement batteries. It is also a good idea to have matches and lighters and sufficient canned food to last any days.

Other key essentials to have within reach after an earthquake hits comprise blankets, first aid supplies, and dependable communication gear. Even though it may be spring or summer the temperature at night can drop significantly and if you are outdoors waiting on accident help it is advised to have blankets and other warm covers to shield yourself and others from cool temperatures.

Even if you avoid major injury during an earthquake you will most likely be scraped or cut somewhere and though the wound may be small if it is not treated swiftly and properly infection can occur and make a small problem a major one. Having basic first aid supplies on hand along with bandages, anti-bacteria ointments and gauze can patch up most minor bruises. Your first aid kit doesn't have to be bulky and cumbersome, just be sure you have the essentials for providing temporary relief until trained recovery squads can arrive.

preparing For Earthquakes