DOs and Donts before, during and after the earthquakes. Precautions for earthquake

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 NEVER THINK IT CAN'T HAPPEN TO YOU!!!
I have been through lots of ups and downs during motorbike expeditions and while living a luxury life in a modern city.
I would say, Anything can  happen to Anyone, Anytime and Anywhere.

It is always better to construct your house/office earthquake proof. There are some methods keep the buildings intact during most earthquakes. It is better to spend on security rather than losing everything in a seconds.

Always keep a battery-operated radio. Do not depend on any other person or on mobile phones. Many services like mobile phones, T.V., etc. may stop but radio will prove very useful.
DO NOT PANIC!
Identify the safe areas at your home, work place or at any other place you spend time.
1. Drop down and take cover quickly.
2. If you are on some floor in a building then look for corners immediately or some big/strong tables. You should already fix some spots at your house, workplace or where ever you spend your time and plan before anything happens.
3. Don't rush to lifts/elevators.
4. Stay away from cupboards, wall cabinets, etc that can fall.
5. If you are outside, stay outside and away from electric poles, wires.
6. Don't use matches, candles, or fire. There could be some broken gas lines.
7. If you are driving, stop the vehicle and stay inside until the earthquake stops.

Dos After the Earthquake:
1. Check yourself and others for any injuries. Provide first aid treatment if required.
2. Check water, gas, electrical lines for any damage. If there is any damage in gas line, shut off the valve. Check for the smell. If you smell it, DO NOT SWITCH ON ANY ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE, LIGHT ETC. Just open the windows and doors, rush out and inform the authorities concerned.
3. Turn on the radio and don't use your mobile phones unless there is emergency and save batter (power).
4. Stay out of damaged buildings, beaches and other damaged areas.
5. There are aftershocks after the earthquakes. They also damage buildings. Brace for them too.
Contributed by Nasser Gorsi
The writer is a gold-medalist in Post Graduate Diploma in Disaster Management and Security
Panjab University, Chandigarh.