A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar last week, killing more than 2,700 people and injuring more than 4,500. The impact of the earthquake was also significant in Thailand, where at least 22 people were killed and a skyscraper under construction collapsed in Bangkok. Many tourists are confused and worried about what will happen if they are unlucky enough to encounter a similar disaster during their trip.
Often when traveling, people will only care about having fun and not think about the possibility of an earthquake to prevent it. Understanding how to respond before, during and after an earthquake can help you minimize risks and stay calm in an emergency, returning safely after the trip.
Tourists pour out of a shopping mall in Thailand after an earthquake struck last week.
Prepare before the trip
Before departing, travelers should learn about the destination, including earthquake risks and safety guidelines. Governments and tourism agencies in many countries provide information on natural disaster risks, safe areas, and earthquake procedures. It is also important to register with the embassy or consulate in the host country to receive assistance in an emergency.
One of the most important steps is to prepare a compact emergency kit, which includes essential items such as a flashlight, spare batteries, a whistle, drinking water, dry food, a first aid kit and some cash. Many hotels in earthquake-prone areas will have these items available, but it is best for travelers to be proactive in preparing their own in case of an emergency.
Additionally, guests should familiarize themselves with the property’s fire escape plan upon check-in. Knowing the hotel’s fire exits, stairwells, and safe areas in advance will help them react quickly if an earthquake occurs.
One of the most important steps is to prepare a compact emergency kit, which includes essential items.
Responding when an earthquake occurs
If you are in a house or hotel when an earthquake occurs, the most important thing is to stay calm and quickly find a safe shelter. The “Drop - Cover - Hold On” principle is recommended by safety experts around the world. Specifically, you should crouch low to avoid falling, use your hands or objects such as pillows to cover your head and neck, then find a fixed object such as a table or bed to take shelter under. If there is no suitable shelter, kneel close to the wall and cover your head with both hands. Avoid standing near windows, bookcases, chandeliers or objects that can fall.
If you are outdoors when the earthquake occurs, find an open area, away from buildings, utility poles, trees, or billboards, as these could fall and cause danger. If you are driving, stop immediately in a safe area, away from bridges, tunnels, and power lines. Stay in your vehicle until the shaking stops.
If an earthquake occurs while you are near the coast, move immediately to higher ground to avoid the risk of a tsunami. Many earthquake-prone areas have tsunami warning systems, so listen to your local authorities for information on how to act.
When a tremor occurs, crouch low to avoid falling, use your hands or objects such as pillows to cover your head and neck, then find a fixed object such as a table or bed to take shelter under.
Post-earthquake treatment
After the shaking has stopped, check yourself and others for injuries. If someone is injured, perform basic first aid and seek medical help. Never use the elevator to leave the building, as the electrical system may fail and you may be trapped. Use the stairs and exit carefully.
It is important not to light a fire or use electrical appliances immediately as there is a risk of gas leaking and causing an explosion. If you smell gas, open a window, leave the area immediately and notify the authorities.
In case you are trapped under rubble, try to stay calm and conserve energy. Cover your mouth with a towel or shirt to avoid breathing in dust, then make noise by tapping on pipes, walls or surrounding objects to signal your location to the rescue team. Only shout when absolutely necessary to avoid exhausting yourself and inhaling too much dust.
If someone is injured, perform basic first aid and seek help from medical personnel.
Being prepared and knowing what to do when an earthquake strikes is extremely important for anyone who likes to travel, especially to areas with a high risk of earthquakes. By researching your destination, carrying an emergency kit, understanding safety rules, and knowing how to stay calm in a dangerous situation, you can protect yourself and help others in an emergency. Always put safety first to have a complete and safe trip.
