Even during the midst of an ongoing pandemic, natural phenomenons such as earthquakes can still occur.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) underscored the importance of ensuring the safety of the public during and after an earthquake, while still adhering to minimum public health standards.
Despite the “stay at home” order this time of pandemic, the agency noted that evacuation may be needed when a strong earthquake happen.
It also emphasized the need to prevent the spread of infections in evacuation sites.
With this, Phivolcs has provided six steps that the public should follow when an earthquake strikes during a pandemic:
- Observe duck, cover, and hold during an earthquake.
- After the shaking, evacuate the building using the safest and fastest way while observing physical distancing. Remember to wear face mask and bring your emergency bag.
- Walk fast but do not run.
- Remain calm. Do not push others.
- Go to the nearest open space or to the designated evacuation area. Continue observing physical distancing.
- If you wish to enter a building after the quake, wait for the advice of the management if it is now safe to do so.
Earthquakes are frequent in the Philippines as the country is located along the so-called “Ring of Fire” where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions often occur.
In the Philippines, the Phivolcs is the government agency in charge of monitoring volcano, earthquake, and tsunami activities, as well as provide information and issue warnings for disaster preparedness and mitigation.
Various government agencies and private institutions held a nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill on Thursday, June 10.