When an earthquake hits, the immediate aftermath can be chaotic and frightening. Knowing some basic first aid skills can be a lifesaver, literally. Whether you’re at home, at work, or traveling, being prepared can help you respond effectively. Here’s a simple guide on the essential first aid skills everyone should know for earthquake survival.
Despite the frequent and powerful tremors, including more than 1,000 aftershocks, Taiwan has recently been hit by over 80 earthquakes, with the strongest recorded at a magnitude of 6.3, these earthquake survival skills can save you!
Stay Calm and Be Prepared
Before we dive into the specific skills, the most important thing in any emergency, including an earthquake, is to stay calm. Panic can lead to rushed decisions and mistakes. Part of staying calm is knowing you are prepared. This means having an earthquake survival kit ready and getting prepared to stay with climate change effects can be a wise choice. Your kit should include medical supplies, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and a radio.
First Aid Skills for Earthquake Survival
1. Checking for Responsiveness
After an earthquake, check if the people around you are conscious. Gently tap their shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” If they don’t respond, call for help immediately. Use your local emergency services number and inform them clearly about the situation.
2. Stopping Bleeding
Injuries resulting in bleeding are common in earthquakes due to falling debris and broken glass. If someone is bleeding:
– Apply firm pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage.
– If the cloth becomes soaked with blood, do not remove it. Instead, add more layers on top.
– Keep pressure on the wound until the bleeding stops or medical help arrives.
– If the bleeding is severe and, in the limbs, consider applying a tourniquet above the level of the wound, but only if you have been trained to do so.
3. Handling Broken Bones
If you suspect someone has a broken bone:
– Keep the person still. Do not attempt to realign the bone.
– Immobilize the injured area with a splint or padding if you must move the person.
– Avoid moving them unless absolutely necessary, such as in the presence of immediate danger (like a fire or a collapsing structure).
4. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
If someone isn’t breathing:
– Administer CPR if you are trained. Push hard and fast on the center of their chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
– If you have not been trained, attempt hands-on CPR or follow instructions from emergency services on the phone.
5. Shock Management
Shock can occur after severe injury or trauma and can be life-threatening:
– Keep the person warm and comfortable. Use blankets or extra clothing to maintain body heat.
– Have them lie down with their feet elevated about 12 inches unless this causes pain, or you suspect head, neck, or back injuries.
– Do not give them food or water.
6. Create a Basic Medical Kit
Every home and office should have a basic medical kit that is part of the earthquake survival kits. Include items like:
– Sterile gauze and bandages of various sizes
– Adhesive tape
– Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
– Over-the-counter pain relievers
– Scissors and tweezers
– Latex or nitrile gloves
Regularly Update Your Skills and Kit
It’s not enough to just read about these skills, consider taking a first aid course to practice and update these skills regularly. Also, check your first aid kit every six months to replenish supplies and replace expired items.
Earthquakes are unpredictable, but being prepared can make all the difference. Knowing these basic first aid skills and keeping your earthquake survival kits updated can help you and others stay safe.
Stay tuned with the physicalfreakpage, remember, the first stepan effectiveivetive emergency response is preparation. Stay safe and ready!
