Tsunami alert: Here are reminders before, during, and after tsunami occurs

Threats of dangers from natural disasters can be avoided. All it takes is for people to know what to do--after all, knowledge, they say, is power.

In the case of tsunamis which sometimes comes after strong earthquakes, there are things that could be done to ensure that you and your loved ones would not be swept away.

According to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), a tsunami is a series of waves created by an earthquake whose epicenter is under the sea.

To prevent unforeseen accidents, here are some of the important reminders do to before, during, and after the tsunami:

Before

• Find out if there is a tsunami risk in your area.
• Locate the evacuation area and find out the fastest and safest way to go there.
• Participate in the training session in the community for disaster preparation.
• Plant trees or mangroves near the coastline.
• Prepare the disaster preparedness bag for the family.

During

• Be alert and prepared if these incidents happened such as a strong earthquake that is enough to be felt and a sudden rise or fall of sea water.
• Do not stay on the coastline after a strong earthquake occurred.
• Do not go to the beach or near the sea to watch or to photograph the tsunami.

After

• Leave the evacuation center when it is safe as announced by the authorities.
• Stay away from the sea until the authorities are notified that it is safe to go.
• Find out if a relative or acquaintance is missing and report it immediately to the authorities.
• Take the injured or sick person to the nearest hospital.
• Make sure that there are no wet or soaked electric outlets or equipment before turning on the power line.
• Inspect the house for damages and repair it if necessary.

The OCD said the tsunami waves can exceed a height of at least five meters.

On Aug. 17, 1976, a tsunami created by a magnitude 8.1 earthquake trembled the shores of the Moro Gulf in Mindanao.

It was reported that at least 6,000 people died due to the incident.