Earthquake Safety Tips 2023

The Philippines is geographically located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it tremendously prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country is also perennially ranked as one of the most earthquake-susceptible countries in the world. In a viral Facebook video post, it was ranked second next to Japan.

Just recently, the countries of Turkey and Syria bore the brunt of this home-shattering natural disaster, killing thousands of lives with many still missing and rescue operations still underway. The world gestures its care by sending people to help and dispensing donations to uplift the affected countries and gain resilience in the face of an unprecedented catastrophe in their recent memory.

Preparedness for earthquakes, which the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) says happens 100 to 150 times a year in the country alone, could not be more emphasized. As much as no one wants to experience the Big One, disaster preparedness is of the utmost importance. This 2023, Lumina Homes wishes everyone to become more earthquake-prepared with these earthquake safety tips.

Before an Earthquake Strikes

Before an actual earthquake strikes, here's what you can do to be prepared:

1. Actively participate in any earthquake simulation drills

If there is an earthquake drill in your community, school, or a public space, do not hesitate to participate and think as though there really is an earthquake happening where you're located. This is an important undertaking to help you and others prepare and know what to do in case an earthquake, irrespective of magnitude, really happens during the most unexpected situation.

2. Stay updated on news before, during, and after an earthquake

Keep your mobile data on for alerts from NDRRMC or any news from mass media organizations about any natural disaster. An earthquake may transpire in the dead of night while you're asleep, and keeping your phone lines and internet connection open will let you know about any occurrences in your community or nearby.

3. Identify safe places in your location to take cover

Familiarize yourself with the interiors of your home. You must be aware of where a piece of sturdy furniture situates to get away from falling debris. The same applies if you are in the office or school during an earthquake. The most important thing to take a mental note of is to never be in panic mode if earthquake damage is imminent.

It is also just as important to make sure that heavy objects in your home must not be placed on top shelves. They must be situated on lower shelves to keep them from falling from up high. An interior wall away from windows is also a safe alternative to crawling under a piece of furniture. Also check your gas appliances before, during, and after an earthquake.

4. Organize disaster supplies

For any calamity, an emergency kit is a lifesaver. This should include the following:

• Water (bottled water, ideally 1 gallon for each person)

• Non-perishable food items (canned goods that need not be cooked, and crackers)

• Tools (can opener, flashlight, batteries, cellphone with charger and powerbank, pliers, wrench,whistle, and other tools and supplies)

• Baby items (wet wipes, diapers, baby food, and other supplies)

• Pet care items (pet food, leashes, collar, bowls, among others)

• Important documents (land title, identification cards (IDs), birth certificates, and other essential records)

• Money (ideally cash, as ATMs may not work)

During an Earthquake

During an actual earthquake, here's what you can do to remain safe:

If you are inside your home:

• Do not remain or stay beside the doorway. This is not the safest space to take cover.

• Master the basics: Drop, cover, and hold on.

• Drop, cover your head and neck with your arms so as to protect your head from falling or flying objects. These important gestures will also help protect your vital organs.

• Crawl under a sturdy object or furniture to hold on to until the earthquake eases down and the rapid shaking stops.

If you are outside:

• Stay away from buildings, poles, trees, utility wires, power lines, and streetlights.

• Remain standing in an open space.

If you are in a vehicle:

• Gently pull over to the side of the road.

• Stay inside your vehicle until the earthquake stops. Even then, stay for a minute or two more before driving again or go outside to check your surroundings.

• If a power line falls, either directly on your car or near it, stay inside and wait for help. If you have your phone, call for help.

After an Earthquake

After an actual major earthquake, here's what you can do to keep safe:

• Keep your phone lines and internet connection open for updates.

• Pay attention to advisories from disaster experts.

• If you are trapped in a building, call or text your local emergency hotline if you can. Attract attention by tapping a wall or a pipe.

• If you have your phone, play music or loud ringtones that would signal where you are trapped.

• Keep away from downed power lines, broken gas lines, broken glass, and damaged buildings. Aftershocks may happen and it can result in further collapse.

In an earthquake, your family and your home's protection are top priorities. Unlike typhoons, earthquakes can't be forecasted, making them scarier and therefore necessitating the utmost preparedness possible.

At Lumina Homes, you can rest assured that our house models are built to be sturdy and safe. You will also have the liberty to design your interiors to your own liking and earthquake-proof it yourself by following our safety tips on furniture placements.

With over 50 housing communities nationwide, Lumina Homes designed its housing provisions to be strategically and conveniently located near essential establishments. During calamities, our communities are also near LGU offices and disaster management councils when the need for help comes.

Make your future house and lot in the Philippines safe against natural disasters with a real estate investment through Lumina Homes. Our affordable house and lot for sale are built for convenience, comfort, and protection for your family. Join other Filipino families who have chosen Lumina Homes to be their place of shelter. Get your affordable house and lot soon. Contact Lumina Homes today!