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Experiencing an earthquake can be terrifying for anyone, especially children. These unpredictable natural disasters occur in various locations around the world. If you reside in a region prone to earthquakes, it's essential to prepare adequately to ensure safety during such events.
Jump Ahead:
Earthquake Basics
Preparation Guidelines
Managing During an Earthquake
Response After an Earthquake
Caring for Your Children
Earthquakes and Their Causes, Locations, and Aftershocks
Earthquakes can happen anywhere, but they're more common in certn areas. If you live in a risk zone, understand local authorities' guidelines and prepare accordingly, especially if your family is spread across different locations during the day.
Conversing with Your Children
Discuss earthquakes their nature, occurrences, and safety measures with your children using age-appropriate language to reassure them that their safety remns your top priority.
Planning for Safety
Craft a comprehensive earthquake emergency plan tlored for your entire family:
Identify evacuation routes and meeting points in case of disruption of communication services during the day.
Keep contact information updated with addresses, phone numbers, and establish a family communication tree including fris and relatives outside your immediate circle.
Inquire about your child's school's contingency plans should an earthquake occur.
Assess your home. If your building lacks structural safety or doesn't meet certn standards, your local authorities can guide you on appropriate precautions to take.
Designate safe spaces within each room in your home assuming it's structurally sound where everyone can gather during an earthquake. Opt for areas with no heavy furniture or items that could fall and injure someone.
Create an emergency kit stocked with essentials like water, food, medications, first d supplies, flashlights, batteries, and personal hygiene items.
Prepare mentally by discussing safety strategies with your children and practicing what to do in a quake.
Managing During Earthquakes
Drop: Drop down immediately when the ground begins to shake.
Cover: Take cover under sturdy furniture like tables or desks if avlable; stay away from windows and mirrors as they can break and fall during tremors.
Hold On: Hold on tightly until the shaking subsides.
Ensure everyone follows these steps, including pets if you have them.
Response After an Earthquake
Conduct a quick safety check for injuries among family members.
Ensure your surroundings are safe to move around in, potential hazards like broken glass or downed power lines.
If injured, provide basic first d promptly but be cautious of further injury while assisting others.
Communication and Support
Update loved ones about your status using avlable communication channels.
Monitor local news and official updates for instructions on finding shelters, medical care centers, or food distribution points.
Use a portable radio to stay informed if phone networks are congested post-earthquake.
Caring for Your Children After an Earthquake
Start by having open conversations with your children about their feelings towards the earthquake.
Encourage them to express any worries or fears and show understanding, providing emotional support through hugging, comforting words, and affectionate gestures.
Reassure them that earthquakes are natural occurrences that happen indepently of actions.
Watch for signs of emotional distress
While most children will return to normalcy within a month following the event, some may experience ongoing anxiety or more severe symptoms like panic attacks or self-harm behaviors if not addressed promptly. If necessary, consult your child's pediatrician or a mental health professional immediately.
Consider incorporating calming exercises into dly routines for younger kids through play activities that involve deep breathing and mindfulness techniques.
Mntn consistency in dly routines as much as possible to restore a sense of normalcy.
Learn More
For more information:
How to Support Your Child During Crisis Situations
Recognizing Signs of Distress in Children After an Earthquake
Talking to Your Child About Climate Change
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This article is reproduced from: https://www.unicef.org/parenting/emergencies/earthquake-safety-information
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