After an earthquake, it is important to be cautious and stay safe. Earthquakes can cause significant damage to buildings and human lives. Knowing what to do and what not to do after an earthquake is essential. Let's take a look at the do’s and don’ts after an earthquake. 

Potential hazards of earthquakes

Earthquakes can have far-reaching consequences, both immediate and long-term. It can cause immense destruction to lives, communities, buildings, and infrastructure. In addition to that, an earthquake can also trigger landslides, floods, tsunamis, or other secondary hazards.

Human lives are vulnerable to earthquakes. Earthquakes can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, concussions, and even death. 

Earthquakes extensively damage buildings and infrastructure. Buildings may collapse due to shaking or be damaged by falling debris. Bridges, roads, and other transportation routes can also get damaged severely. Furthermore, fires can break out due to broken gas lines or other sources of ignition.

Earthquakes can also lead to environmental hazards, such as landslides, floods, and tsunamis. Landslides are caused by the shaking of the ground, which can cause rocks and soil to become displaced and slide down a slope. Floods can be triggered by heavy rains following the earthquake or by dams that fail due to shaking. Tsunamis are large waves caused by the sudden displacement of large amounts of water by the earthquake and can cause extensive destruction to coastal areas.

Finally, earthquakes can have long-term consequences such as environmental damage, economic loss, and psychological trauma. Earthquakes can cause air and water pollution due to the release of hazardous materials.

Read More: Earthquake Safety: Do’s and Don’ts during an Earthquake

Do’s and Don’ts After an Earthquake

Many people die by falling under the buildings demolished by the earthquake. Therefore, increasing public awareness is necessary to prepare for potential earthquakes and reduce damage. Check the following to know your steps after an earthquake.

- Try to stay calm and check the surroundings.

- Check yourself and others for injuries.

- After the shaking, wait for a while, then exit. Because hanging objects may fall from above after a while.

- Check that gas and electrical appliances are switched off. Also, check for any exposed pipes for gas or water leaks. If you can smell gas, open windows and get out of the home or structure. Get repairs done quickly.

- Turn off the main switch or fuse if there is an electric spark anywhere. Beware of damaged buildings.

- Listen to the radio or, if possible, contact others through mobile for further instructions from the authorities.

- Make a gentle tap on the pipe or wall to make your presence known during the rescue operation. Consider screaming as the last option. Because, while shouting, harmful dust can enter the mouth.
Move away from building exteriors and power lines.

- If you are indoors, remain inside and move away from windows.

- If you are outside, move away from any building, infrastructure, tree, and power line.

- Don’t go near the coastline in case of a tsunami warning.

- Don’t try to drive until roads have been cleared of debris.

- Refrain from going sightseeing. Stay away from affected areas.

- Stay away from using elevators or escalators.

- If you suspect damage in the sewer, don’t flash your toilet.

- Cover your nose and mouth with your hand or a handkerchief if you fall into the dust.
Engage yourself in rescue work. Help for evacuation of affected people to temporary shelters.

Read More: Landslide Safety, Preparedness Tips: Dos and Don'ts  

Final Words

Bangladesh is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world due to unplanned urbanization, non-compliance with required building codes, and sprawling buildings and structures. Since an earthquake is a natural disaster, it cannot be stopped. Therefore, this disaster is possible only through strong and effective post-earthquake institutional management to prevent earthquake pre-preparation and damage.

All public and private organizations must be prepared in advance for earthquakes. That is why it is important to take proper steps for all the organizations, including necessary training to properly concentrate in the post-earthquake period. Development of pre-preparedness is absolutely essential as overall readiness for earthquakes in the current framework is very poor in Bangladesh.

So far, we have discussed the potential hazards of earthquakes and the steps to take after an earthquake. By understanding these post-earthquake cautions, you can better prepare yourself and your family for an earthquake.