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An earthquake is a devastating natural disaster that can occur unpredictably. The possibility of an earthquake while your children are at home is a significant concern for parents. However, you can minimize this risk by taking the right precautions and educating your children. In this blog post, we will discuss the measures you can take to protect your children from earthquakes when you are away from home in detail.

Pre-Earthquake Preparations: Basic Steps

1. Create a Safe Home Environment:
   • Secure Furniture: Secure large and heavy furniture (bookshelves, cabinets, televisions, etc.) to the walls.
   • Reinforce Windows: Use shatter-resistant glass or apply safety film to existing windows.
   • Lighting: Keep emergency lights and flashlights available.
   • Check Gas and Water Valves: Learn how to turn off gas and water valves in case of an earthquake.
2. Prepare an Earthquake Emergency Kit:
   • Basic Supplies: Water, canned food, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, whistle, blanket, spare clothes, and shoes.
   • Child-Specific Items: Toys, books, crayons, a favorite blanket, or toy.
   • Medications: Regularly used medications and prescriptions.
   • Important Documents: Copies of IDs, title deeds, insurance policies, etc.
3. Create a Family Communication Plan:
   • Meeting Point: Designate a safe place for the family to meet after an earthquake.
   • Contact Information: Ensure everyone knows each other’s contact information (phone numbers, addresses, etc.).
   • Emergency Contact: Designate a relative or friend living out of town as the emergency contact person.
4. Conduct Earthquake Drills:
   • “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” Position: Teach children how to protect themselves during an earthquake.
   • Evacuation Plan: Show how to safely exit the house and go to the meeting point.
   • Different Scenarios: Conduct drills at different times and locations to ensure children are prepared.

Educating Children: Explain in a Way They Can Understand

• Explain What an Earthquake Is: Explain what an earthquake is, why it happens, and how it feels in simple and understandable language.
• Understand and Address Their Fears: Listen to children’s fears about earthquakes and reassure them.
• Show Safe Places: Show safe places in the house where they can take shelter during an earthquake (under a sturdy table, next to a bed, etc.).
• Introduce the Earthquake Emergency Kit: Explain what the items in the kit are for and why they are important.
• Teach Through Games: Read books, play games, and watch cartoons about earthquakes.

Additional Precautions to Take When Away From Home

1. Find a Reliable Caregiver:
   • Earthquake Awareness: Ensure the caregiver is aware and prepared for earthquakes.
   • First Aid Training: It is preferable for the caregiver to have first aid training.
   • Emergency Contact Information: Ensure the caregiver knows who to contact in case of an emergency.
2. Teach Children Emergency Numbers:
   • 112 Emergency Call Center: Teach children how to call 112 and what to say.
   • Close Relatives’ Numbers: Have children memorize the numbers of trusted close relatives or write them down in an easily accessible place.
3. Cooperate with Neighbors:
   • Emergency Assistance: Agree with your neighbors to help each other in emergencies.
   • Child Monitoring: Ask your neighbors to monitor your children and make sure they are safe.
4. Utilize Technology:
   • Earthquake Apps: Download earthquake warning apps on your phone.
   • Security Cameras: Install security cameras in your home to monitor your children remotely.
   • Smart Home Systems: Use smart home systems to automatically turn off gas and water valves during an earthquake.

What to Do After an Earthquake

• Stay Calm and Reassure Children: It is very important to stay calm and reassure children after an earthquake.
• Assess Damage: Check for damage in your home and surroundings.
• Notify Emergency Teams: Call 112 if there are injuries or serious damage.
• Go to the Meeting Point: Go to the meeting point designated in the family communication plan.
• Seek Help: Request the help you need (food, water, shelter, etc.).

Additional Tips

• Insurance: Secure your home and belongings with earthquake insurance.
• Psychological Support: Remember that your children may be psychologically affected after an earthquake and seek professional help if necessary.
• Stay Updated: Follow earthquake-related developments and update your precautions.

Remember, an earthquake is a natural disaster, and it is important to be prepared at all times. By taking these measures and educating your children, you can ensure their safety even when you are away from home.