Guide: Here's what experts recommend you do before, during, and after an earthquake

An earthquake is a sudden and strong shaking of the earth caused by the movement of rocks deep underground.

In Morocco, and on the quiet of Friday’s night, Moroccan collectively felt the grounds howl. Considering earthquakes in the Kingdom are a rarity, here are the most important guidelines for how to deal with the natural occurence.  

People can get hurt or even lose their lives when they fall while trying to walk or run during the shaking or when they are hit by falling objects. 

After the main earthquake, smaller ones, called aftershocks, often happen. Earthquakes can also lead to tsunamis, landslides, fires, and damage to things like water and electricity systems. 

It’s safer to drop to the ground before the earthquake makes you fall and find some shelter nearby. You can also use your arms and hands to protect your head and neck. 

This “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method is the best way to stay safe during an earthquake, even if things in the room are shaking or the building might collapse.

The ONLY time you should not “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is if you’re in a place with buildings that aren’t built to withstand earthquakes and you’re on the first floor of a mud-brick (adobe) building with a heavy ceiling. In that case, it’s better to try and get outside quickly to an open space. 

Before an Earthquake: Be Prepared

1. Secure Heavy Items: After earthquakes, we often see that more than half of the injuries happen because things fall down during the shaking. To make this less likely, take a good look at your home or workplace. 

Check that big and heavy stuff like bookcases and beds, as well as machines like water heaters and TVs, are firmly attached to the wall using straps, hooks, or wall supports. Also, put large and  heavy things on lower shelves near the ground, and keep them away from doors and places where you need to get out.

2. Identify Safe Spots: In every room of your home, it’s crucial to identify safe spots where you can take cover during an earthquake. 

Common safe spots include getting under a sturdy table or desk. To ensure everyone in your household knows what to do, practice earthquake drills regularly, teaching them the “drop, cover, and hold on” technique.

3. Have a Plan: Establishing a family emergency plan is essential. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to access disaster supplies and understands whom to contact and where to meet if you are separated when an earthquake strikes.
4. Gather Supplies: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential items such as water, a first-aid kit, sturdy shoes, a portable radio, snacks, and emergency cash. Tailor your kit to your specific needs and have smaller go-bags ready in your car, workplace, and other frequented locations.
5. DON’T forget your pets: When preparing for emergencies, it’s crucial to include your pets in your family’s plan. This involves creating an evacuation strategy for them, identifying pet-friendly shelters, and establishing a buddy system with neighbors or friends who can care for your pets if needed. Microchipping your pets with up-to-date contact information is vital

Assemble an emergency kit for your pets, including food, water, medicine, first aid supplies, identification, and comforting items. Regularly review and refresh this kit to ensure your pets’ safety and well-being during unexpected situations.

During an Earthquake: drop, cover and hold on

1. Indoors: If you find yourself indoors during an earthquake, your safety depends on swift and deliberate actions. 

   – Get under a table or desk to protect yourself.

   – Cover your head and neck with one arm or hand.

   – Use your other arm or hand to hold on (drop, cover, and hold on).

   – If no shelter is available, move into an interior hallway or stand against an inside wall.

   – Stay away from windows, fireplaces, heavy furniture, and appliances. Avoid using elevators during the quake.

   – If you are in bed when an earthquake starts, remain in bed and lie face down to protect vital organs. Cover your head and neck with a pillow.

2. Outdoors: If you happen to be outdoors during an earthquake, adhere to these guidelines:

   – Quickly find an open space away from buildings, power lines, and any objects that could fall on you.

   – If you are driving, safely pull over and stop, staying inside your vehicle until the shaking stops. Avoid stopping under bridges, overpasses, or near objects that could strike your vehicle.

   – In mountainous areas, be vigilant for falling rocks and landslides. If you are near the ocean during a severe earthquake, be mindful of potential tsunamis.

After an Earthquake: Stay Safe and Informed

1. Safety Check : Once the shaking subsides, it is essential to follow these steps:

   – Assess your own well-being and that of those around you.

   – Check for injuries and provide first aid if needed.

   – Examine your surroundings for hazards such as gas leaks or fires. Always wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet from broken glass and debris.

2. Get Help, if Needed : If you find yourself trapped, cover your mouth, nose, and eyes to shield against dust. Use text messages or make noise to alert rescuers to your location.
3. Be Prepared for Aftershocks : Earthquakes are often followed by aftershocks, which can be as strong as the initial quake. Be ready for further shaking.
4. Stay Connected : If you have access to a battery-operated radio or television, tune in for emergency information. While you should inform friends and family that you are safe, minimize phone calls to preserve internet and telephone connectivity. 

What not to do:

1. Avoid running to other rooms during the earthquake, as the ground may still be shaking.
2. Do not seek shelter in doorways; this offers no protection against falling or flying objects.
3. After an earthquake, refrain from using matches or lighters near stoves or barbecues until you are sure there are no gas leaks. Do not attempt to turn the gas back on by yourself; leave it to the gas company.