EARTHQUAKES:
San Francisco may be one of the most beautiful cities in the world but it also one that sits on one of the most interesting Fault Lines in the Northern Hemisphere.
Here is a brief idea of the procedure to follow in the case of an earthquake but like so many things it really is most important to just be sensible and not panic.
Earthquakes do not give any warning as to when they will happen. This makes it necessary for people who live or travel in earthquake prone areas to know the emergency procedures beforehand to survive an earthquake.
- Get on to your knees and underneath a desk or other piece of furniture which is solidly made as soon as you feel the tremors of an earthquake. The desk or furniture will protect you from falling debris. Do not stand or sit on the floor next to something heavy that can fall, such as a bookcase.
If you are not near any furniture, you can always back yourself into a corner and sit down. However I have often been recommended to look for a doorway which is structurally sound and if possible under a supporting beam. Stay away from windows. Make sure to protect your head with anything you can find. - Put your head down and lace your fingers behind your neck (similar to the position shown on airplane safety cards). Put your head down as far as you can, between your knees if possible to try and make your body as small as possible. Try to cover your ears if you can as earthquakes set off all sorts of sirens and alarms, which could cause damage to your hearing. Close your eyes to protect them from any dust that the earthquake stirs up from damaged buildings and falling debris. Stay in the curled up position until the shaking stops.
- If you are inside a building, make sure it is safe to exit the building before attempting to do so. If necessary, wait for rescue workers to come to you and help you leave the building safely. Do not enter buildings for any reason after earthquakes until rescue and police have deemed it safe.
