10 safety steps to take during an earthquake

Tengrinews.kz - Kazakhstan's Ministry of Emergency Situations has reminded citizens of 10 essential steps to help protect themselves and those around them during an earthquake.

Stay calm, don't panic!

In a critical situation, it is essential to stay composed, as panic can increase the danger and lead to injuries.

Avoid using elevators and stairs during tremors.

Elevators may become stuck due to power outages, and stairs are often damaged. It's best to stay put until the shaking stops.

Move away from furniture, windows, and chandeliers.

Large furniture, glass, and hanging objects can fall or shatter, posing a serious hazard.

Find sturdy shelter.

If on an upper floor, stay near load-bearing walls, which are more likely to withstand the tremors.

Exit the building.

If you live in a multi-story building, wait until the shaking stops before leaving.

Turn off water, gas, and electricity.

This can help prevent fires, gas leaks, and flooding caused by damaged utilities.

Grab an emergency kit.

Have essentials ready, including documents, a flashlight, food, water, and a first-aid kit.

Stay away from power lines, buildings, and trees outdoors.

Falling branches, power lines, or building debris pose risks outside.

Be prepared for aftershocks.

The aftershocks can occur minutes, hours, or even days after the main quake, so stay alert.

Assist elderly people and those with disabilities.

Helping others is vital to ensuring collective safety.

"Advance preparation for potential emergencies and knowing how to act during an earthquake can be crucial for preserving health and life," the statement reads.

As a reminder, an earthquake occurred on November 5 at 10:01 a.m. Astana time in the Almaty region, with the epicenter located 33 kilometers east of Almaty. Tremors in Almaty were recorded at a magnitude of 3 points.