Delhi-NCR Earthquake Alert: How to Protect Yourself Before & After an Earthquake?

As reported by the National Center for Seismology, the Delhi NCR experienced a magnitude 4.0 earthquake at 5:36 am today. Authorities, including Delhi police, have urged citizens to remain vigilant and call emergency services when needed (112).

Hey Delhi people!

We hope everyone is safe. Please go from the building to a safe place, but don’t panic.

Don’t use the elevator!

For any emergency help, call 112.#earthquake

– Delhi Police (@delhipolice) October 3, 2023

Earthquakes are sudden and rapid ground vibrations caused by rock movements deep in the ground. When two parts of the local shell suddenly move to each other, an earthquake occurs. This movement occurs along a fault called a fault or fault plane. The exact point where the earthquake originates from below the Earth’s surface is called the low center, while the spots directly above the surface are called the epicenter. These earthquake events can trigger fires, tsunamis, landslides, or avalanches. This article provides vital safety measures to follow before, during and after the earthquake.

Preventive measures before earthquakes

Know it #earthquake#safetytips pic.twitter.com/qygd71gzit

– Delhi Police (@delhipolice) October 15, 2023

In order to minimize damage and ensure safety, individuals should take the following precautions:

1. Disaster Emergency Kit Preparation

Make sure your emergency kit includes:

  • Battery via additional battery
  • Battery-type radio
  • First Aid Kits and Manuals
  • Keep dry, non-rotten food and sealed bottled water to keep emergency prepared.
  • Candles and waterproof matches
  • Multifunctional knife
  • Chlorine tablets or powder water purifier
  • Can open the door
  • Essential Medicines
  • Cash and credit cards
  • thick
  • Sturdy shoes

2. Structural safety and home preparation

  • Repair deep cracks in the ceiling and foundation.
  • Comply with the Bureau of Standards of India (BIS) building regulations.
  • Secure the shelf, water heater and LP cylinder to the wall.
  • Store fragile and dangerous items in lock cabinets.
  • Keep heavy items away from the bed and living areas.
  • Determine safe indoor and outdoor locations (e.g., space away from buildings and power cords under solid furniture).
  • Conveniently maintain emergency contact.
  • Educate family members about emergency response plans.

Safety measures during earthquakes

1. If indoors

  • If an earthquake hits, drop to the ground, cover it under solid furniture, and cover your head for protection.
  • Avoid glass, windows, doors, walls and falling objects.
  • If in bed, stay there, cover your head with a pillow unless under heavy fixtures.
  • Use the doorway only if the shelter is a strong load structure.
  • It is safe to keep indoors until the shaking stops and exits.
  • Expect power outages, alarm triggers and pipeline damage.

Source: Ready.gov

2. If outdoors

  • Head to the open space to make sure you stay away from buildings, trees, street lights and power cords for safety.
  • Stay in place until it stops.
  • Avoid standing near exits or exterior walls as they pose the greatest risk.

Source: Ready.gov

3. If in a moving vehicle

  • Stop safely and stay in the car.
  • Avoid stopping near buildings, trees, bridges and public power lines.
  • Be cautious after shaking to avoid damage to the road.

Source: Ready.gov

4. If trapped under debris

  • Don’t click on the match.
  • Avoid unnecessary movement to prevent dust from sucking in.
  • Cover the mouth with a cloth.
  • Take care by knocking the rescuers on pipes or walls!
  • If so, use the whistle.
  • Avoid shouting; as a last resort, minimum shouting to prevent inhaling dust.

Source: Ready.gov

Safety tips after exercise

1. Check for danger

  • Check the building for structural damage and gas leakage.
  • If damage is suspected, turn off the power, gas and water.
  • Avoid using elevators in case of aftershocks.
  • Stay updated via official news sources.

2. Assist others

  • Provide first aid to the injured.
  • Help the elderly and disabled people to evacuate safely.
  • Aftershocks can be as dangerous as the initial ones, so it’s important to prepare them.

3. Community preparation

  • Spread earthquake awareness in local communities.
  • Perform emergency drills regularly.
  • Work with local authorities to develop disaster response plans.

in conclusion

Delhi belongs to the IV seismic zone, making it prone to earthquakes. Being prepared, understanding safety protocols and acting quickly can significantly reduce risks and save lives. Awareness and preparation are key to safe surviving earthquake events.

Emergency contact person

  • Delhi Police: 112
  • Fire Department: 101
  • Ambulance Service: 102
  • National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 1078
  • Earthquake Ministry: Official website