What is an earthquake?
An earthquake is a weak to strong ground shaking due to sudden movement or even displacement of the rocks underneath.Another definition is, it is shaking of a part of the earth’s surface that often causes great damage to humanities whether that is volcanic or tectonic in origin.
What are the possible effects of an earthquake?
Strong ground shaking can cause injuries to people due to broken glasses and fallen objects. Possible damage of buildings may occur. Buildings that are not properly constructed can collapse. Railway tracks are bent or broken. Fissures and fault rupture may be observed. Even bridges and elevated concrete structures are toppled or destroyed and worst it can cause death of many to even hundreds of people.
Why do we need to prepare for an earthquake?
We need to orient the students. We do not know where and when exactly an earthquake will strike, but we can learn and teach the needed actions to avoid the possible effects and impacts that it can bring. Children spend most of their time in school. If an earthquake occurs during school time, as teachers you will have to respond and secure the safety of all your students.
What do we need to do at school before, during and after earthquakes?
We can observe safety measures and precautions to avoid the impacts of an earthquake. We need to familiarize ourselves and teach our learners and/or students about our school surroundings. You can start by having a class activity wherein you and your learners can go around visiting the school premisesto be familiarized with the earthquake safe spots or open spaces in your school. Next is to identify unsafe practices, potential hazards and danger zones in case a n earthquake strike our location. Let them comprehend on some possible hazards inside and out of their classroom such as large and heavy pieces of furniture that could topple like book cases and cabinets; hanging flower pots and ceiling fans; glass window panes and walls that could break; heavy picture frames and mirrors; latches on cabinets that will not hold cabinet door closed;glass or other breakable objects that are kept on high and open shelves; obstructions such as plant boxes, chairs and benches, bulletin boards, trash cans that may block their exit points and corridors; and elevated water tanks and electrical posts.
When a strong shaking starts, first and foremost you need to protect yourself. Stay away from falling objects such as pieces of broken glass windows, ceiling fans, and other hazards in your classroom. Get under a sturdy table / desk and do the “DUCK, COVER and HOLD”. You need to stay put until the shaking stops. As soon as the shaking stopsleave the classroom immediately in an orderly manner, guide and instruct them to just walk silently. Tell them not to run, do not push any of their classmates. Then proceed to the identified evacuation area.It is very significant and important for the school to prepare an evacuation plan and to conduct earthquake drills regularly.
By: Mrs. Myra S. Swin | T-I Science Teacher | Bataan National High School
