Immediately after the terrifying earthquake that shook the country, the Ministry of Interior and the State Police are urging citizens to call 112 free of charge for any need or assistance. But besides, what should you know in the event of an earthquake? How should people handle such a situation?
What to do during an earthquake:
- Try to keep calm! If you are in indoors stay there, if you are outdoors stay outdoors again. There is a misconception that running outside a building is a safe move, but moving during an earthquake can be fatal. So you better crawl under solid furniture (for example desk) and stay there until the shakes are over. Then run to a safer environment. If you are outdoors, stay away from power lines, away from buildings, trees and things that may fall.
- Do not use lighters, candles or other form of fire.
- If you are in the car, stop immediately and stay inside it until the earthquake stops.
Do not use elevators, as in most cases they are blocked.
What to do after the earthquake:
- Check for water, gas and power lines if damaged and if you notice something strange, close it immediately. If you smell the gas, open the windows and doors and notify the authorities.
- Stay away from damaged buildings, away from windows and glass (because shakes can repeat).
- Beware of the chimneys!
- Stay away from beach areas as tectonic movements can cause long, torrential waves.
