The main objective of the prevention measures is to reduce the negative impact when a natural disaster occurs, in terms of human losses and possible damages that economic activities may suffer. That is why depending on the natural catastrophe we are talking about, we can carry out certain ones to protect ourselves:
1.Slides or landslides:
- Do not overload the floors with constructions.
- Avoid deforestation of land.
- Prevent the water in the pipes from leaking.
- Inform Civil Protection about any irregular situation.
2.Volcanic eruptions:
- Avoid building houses near volcanoes.
- Do not visit active volcanoes that are emitting ash or gases.
- In case of contact with toxic gases from volcanoes, cover our nose with a cloth moistened in vinegar.
- In case the competent authorities recommend the evacuation of the community, follow their instructions and protect ourselves as soon as possible.
3. Tsunamis
- If you are in coastal areas, pay close attention to possible tsunami warnings.
- Have an evacuation route in sight that leads to some elevated location.
- Stay totally away.
- Stay tuned for any announcement from the authorities.
4. Earthquakes or schism: the Earth’s surface is divided into blocks called tectonic plates, which are in continuous motion. When two plates collide, a large amount of energy accumulates and when this is released, the earthquake occurs.
Some measures to take care of ourselves in case it happens are:
If you are at home:
- Always stay calm.
- Have a first aid kit, it will be very useful.
- Have at hand the emergency numbers of the Civil Defense, fire, police, hospitals, among others.
- If possible, turn off the electricity, water and gas.
- Get under a sturdy table, a door frame, and cover your head with a cushion or something sturdy.
- Stay away from windows, shelves, lamps, and mirrors. Don’t use the elevators.
If you are on the street:
- Stay away from poles, trees, and power lines.
- If you are in a movie theater or restaurant, avoid running towards the doors.
- If you are in the moving car, stop quickly and stay inside the vehicle that the shaking passes.
- Avoid stopping near or under buildings, bridges, or trees.
5. Forest fires:
It is the fire that spreads in an excessive way in forest or wild lands, affecting flora, fauna and even human lives.
Some measures to take care of ourselves in case it happens are:
- Get as far away from the affected area as possible.
- Contact emergency agencies and report the situation.
- Stay away from the fire and cover your mouth with a damp cloth.
- Watch the wind, a change can make the fire surround you, so always try to go in the opposite direction.
- Do not run from the fire up the slope, better go through the burned areas and try to be near rivers or roads.
Throughout history, we have seen various natural disasters, which have not only caused millions in losses, but have also destroyed homes, families and the environment of many people.
Let us be aware and take care of the environment, since it is the home where we will stay all our lives. Most natural disasters are the consequence of poor human decisions.