Earthquake hits Taiwan: A survival guide

On 3 April 2024, Taiwan was struck by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake — the strongest in the past 25 years.

First safety steps

Drop down under a table and hold on to a sturdy object. Make sure you are away from windows and side walls. Stay away from electrical objects and wires.

Take shelter in a ventilated space

While taking shelter, avoid closed spaces with possibility of suffocation. One can live without food and water for more than 48 hours, but not without oxygen.

Help those around 

If anyone faints, those around must check for the pulse and perform CPR as the person could have sustained a sudden cardiac arrest. If there are injuries, stop the bleeding with pressure packing on the wound.

Stuck outside?

If you’re outside during an earthquake, make sure to stay in an open area far away from buildings, electric poles, vehicles, etc.

Trapped under debris

People trapped under the rubble have to deal with injuries, shock and uncertainty. Try to make a noise by calling for help or by using an object to alert rescuers.

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Willpower is the key

Earthquakes can be quite traumatic. Reassuring oneself and others that rescue teams will search the debris for survivors strengthens willpower and keeps hope alive.

Listen to people, comfort them

People would have a lot of questions, would want answers and would want to talk about their experience. Listening to them and providing reassurance helps.

How to survive an earthquake

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