Caught in an earthquake? Here are some safety tips

The moderate 6.0-magnitude earthquake that struck Sabah at 7.15am had caused numerous minor landslides in the state and affected several towns and homes.

According to Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Datuk Dr Ewon Ebon, up until 2pm Friday, some 15 mild aftershocks were felt by residents in Ranau.

Meterological Department Malaysia (MetMalaysia) officer Sherizan Darus said, there are several safety steps that can be taken to protect yourself during an earthquake.

PHOTO: Ranau earthquake

"A strong earthquake can cause deaths, injuries and damage. There are several steps that can be taken to make yourself safer during the event of an earthquake.

"It's important to help each other when tremors begin," he said when contacted by Astro AWANI today.

Here are the steps that can be taken to lessen the dangers of an earthquake provided by MetMalaysia:

A) DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

If you are in a building:

• Stay in the building. Take cover under a sturdy table or at the doorway or a corner.
• Distance yourself from windows, book shelves, cabinets, mirrors, hanging flower pots and heavy objects that can slide down or fall.
• Protect your head and face from debris and broken glass.
• Do not use candles, matches or any source of fire as there could be a possibility of gas leaks. Extinguish all sources of fire.

If you are in a high-rise building:

• Do not rush to exit the building.
• Do not use the elevator as the electrity could be cut off.
• Remain in the building and on the same floor.

If you are outside a building:

• Move to an open area. Stay away from power lines, electric poles, trees, tall buildings, walls and street lights.
• Stay away from debris that had fallen near doors and walls.
• Stay away from fallen power lines.
• Remain in an open area until the tremors subside.

If you are on the sidewalk near a building:

• Walk towards the door to protect yourself from falling debris.

If you are in a crowded supermarket:

• Do not rush towards the exit.
• Stay away from shelves with objects that could fall.

If you are in a moving vehicle:

• Drive to an area which you feel is safe. Do not stop on or under a bridge or anywhere near electrical cables.
• Stay in the vehicle until the tremors subside.

B) AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

• Listen to the radio or watch the television to obtain the latest information. If there is no electricity supply, use a battery powered radio.
• Stay calm and evaluate the current situation. Be on the alert for "aftershocks".
• Inspect any injury. Provide emergency assistance if necessary. Do not move victims with serious injuries except those who are at greater risk if they remain at the location.
• Inspect any fires. Extinguish any fires immediately if you are able.
• If you smell gas, open all windows and close the main valve. Do not light matches or a fire. Use a torchlight.
• Do not touch electrical wires or objects that are in contact with them.
• Inspect cabinets and shelves. Open doors slowly and be cautious for objects that might fall.
• Thoroughly inspect sewage systems before flushing the toilet.
• Immediately clean up any spills made by medicine or any dangerous substance.
• Do not eat or drink using damaged utensils.
• Do not use the phone unless making an emergency call (medical, fire and crime).
• Exit buildings with extensive damage. They can collapse in the event of an aftershock.
• Cooperate with civil security personnel. Do not enter any damaged area except to offer help. Create a pathway to ease emergencies.
• Calm children who may be traumatised from the earthquake.