Important: All UNHCR services and assistance are free of charge.
UNHCR is closely working with other humanitarian organizations and trusted partners to respond to the earthquake of 28 March in all affected locations. Based on needs and availability of resources, UNHCR and its trusted partners are providing various types of assistance, such as emergency shelter kits and essential items, as well as services, such as legal assistance, to persons affected by the earthquake.
If you or someone you know have been affected by the earthquake and need support or if you have any questions regarding the assistance provided by UNHCR, please contact UNHCR.
Please find below a few tips on how to act before, during and after an earthquake.
1. How to Prepare for Aftershocks / Before an Earthquake⬇️
- Be prepared for aftershocks. Over the next few months, the affected area is prone to aftershocks, which can cause further damage and injuries.
- Some dams have been damaged and may break, causing floods.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit that includes essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and necessary medications. Keep the kit in an easily accessible location.
- Create a Family Emergency Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that outlines evacuation routes, meeting points, and contact information for family members and emergency services. Ensure that all family members are familiar with the plan.
- Secure Heavy Items: Secure heavy furniture, appliances, and other items that could topple over during an earthquake. Use brackets, straps, or other anchoring devices to prevent them from falling.
- Identify Safe Spaces: Identify safe spots in each room of your home where you can take cover during an earthquake, such as under sturdy furniture or against interior walls away from windows.
- When not in use, shut off valves for gas and water supplies to reduce the risk of leaks and fires.
- Store hazardous materials securely, away from ignition sources.
- Before entering a building, look for signs of damage, such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, sagging roofs, or any visible signs of alteration to the building.
2. How to Act During an Earthquake / In Case of Aftershocks⬇️
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. Protect your head and neck with your arms and hands.
- Stay Indoors: If you are indoors, stay inside and avoid doorways, windows, and exterior walls.
- Move Away from Windows: Stay away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls to avoid injury from shattered glass or collapsing structures.
- Seek Shelter: If you can’t find a sturdy piece of furniture to take cover under, crouch down against an interior wall away from windows, tall furniture, and heavy objects that may topple over.
- Protect Your Head and Neck: Use your arms to cover your head and neck to shield yourself from falling objects and debris.
- Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and reassure others around you, especially children and older persons.
- Wait for the Trembling to Stop: Once the trembling has finished, carefully assess your surroundings for any hazards before moving.
- Exit the Building Safely: If you need to evacuate the building after the shaking stops, do so cautiously. Watch for hazards such as damaged staircases, and debris blocking exit routes.
- Turn Off Utilities: If safe to do so, turn off gas, electricity, and water supplies to prevent fires, electrical hazards, and water damage.
- Listen to Updates: Listen to a battery-powered radio or check your smartphone for updates on the earthquake and any emergency instructions from local authorities.
- If driving a vehicle:
- Stay Inside: Remain inside the vehicle. Do not attempt to get out unless absolutely necessary, as there may be falling debris or other hazards outside.
- Stop Safely: If you are driving, slow down gradually and safely pull over to the side of the road. Avoid stopping under overpasses, bridges, power lines, or large trees that could collapse.
- Stay Calm: Try to remain calm and avoid panicking. Keep your seat belt fastened and encourage passengers to do the same.
- Turn Off the Engine: Turn off the engine to avoid fires or other hazards that may arise from leaking fuel.
- Stay Low: Stay low in your seat and cover your head and neck with your arms or any available cushioning material. This will help protect you from flying debris.
- Avoid Bridges and Overpasses: If possible, avoid stopping on or under bridges and overpasses, as these structures may be particularly vulnerable during an earthquake.
- Wait for Shaking to Stop: Once the shaking stops, carefully assess your surroundings before continuing your journey. Be cautious of aftershocks, which can occur minutes to days after the initial earthquake.
- Assist Others: If it is safe to do so, check on other drivers or pedestrians who may need assistance. However, prioritize your safety and do not put yourself in harm’s way.
- Follow Authorities’ Instructions: Follow any instructions given by emergency responders or local authorities. They will provide guidance on the safest course of action based on the specific circumstances of the earthquake.
3. How to Act After an Earthquake⬇️
- Check for Injuries: Check yourself and your family members for injuries. Administer first aid as needed and seek medical attention for serious injuries.
- Assess Damage: Assess your home for damage, including gas leaks, structural damage, and electrical hazards. If your home is unsafe, evacuate immediately.
- Stay Indoors: If you are indoors, stay inside until you are sure it is safe to exit. Be cautious of aftershocks, which can occur minutes to days after the initial earthquake.
- Communicate with Family: Check in with family members to ensure everyone is safe and accounted for.
- Follow Authorities’ Instructions: Follow any instructions given by emergency responders or local authorities. They will provide guidance on the safest course of action based on the specific circumstances of the earthquake.
