An earthquake is the shaking of the earth surface, resulting from the sudden release of energy in the earth’s lithosphere that creates seismic waves. To face this disaster, governmental, social and individual efforts and cooperation is essential. 

The following measures can be adopted to minimize the effect of an earthquake:

Before the Arrival of Earthquake:

1. Develop a network of seismic instruments, so that forecast about an earthquake can be made by studying the movements inside the earth. 

2. Make a meticulous inspection of the houses and workplace to determine if there are structural dangers. 

3. Build structures only on firm land. 

4. Identify and take measures to reduce the dangers that are present in our homes, neighborhood and the work place. 

5. Secure the potentially – unstable furniture to the floor and the walls.

 6. Remove heavy objects from high places. 

7. Move beds away from dangerous places. 

8. Secure the gas tanks and water heaters to the wall.

During an Earthquake:

1. Move away from the houses. 

2. Keep calm, take a moment to think about the consequences of what you are going to do. 

3. Implement familiar and community emergency plans. 

4. Make a fast initial inspection in case there are people stuck somewhere. 

5. Verify, if there are fires and do not make unnecessary calls. 

6. If you detect any gas leak, close the main valve, open the windows and get away from the building. 

7. Disconnect the electrical service if there are faults in the electrical system of the property. 

8. Do not touch cables or electric posts that have fallen to the ground. 

9. Do not go outside for gossip and to spread rumors. 

10.Help and cooperate with visual impediments. 

11.Cooperate with civil defense and other authorities of emergency and public security.