How do I react to an earthquake and what do I do afterwards?

An earthquake is a natural disaster that unfortunately cannot be prevented and unfortunately cannot be predicted. Its duration is not great, but its consequences can be severe.

There are several more dangerous seismic zones within Bulgaria's territorial borders. The maximum possible magnitude for these is up to 7 on the Richter scale. Such areas are the Kresna, Sofia, Plovdiv, Shablen and Gornoorjahov regions. The aim is to avoid human casualties and also to avoid heavy material losses in the event of an earthquake, even if it is more serious. Such is the purpose of enforcing anti-seismic construction. Building codes must necessarily be adhered to, and work is being done towards creating preparedness to respond adequately and to eradicate the aftermath. One of the ways in which the necessary material aid can be provided to the people most quickly is by setting up a charity campaign. Through a PavelAndreev.ORG donation campaign you can seek help for yourself or help another person who is in difficulty for various reasons.

Check out our other articles related to natural disasters:

• How you can use crowdfunding for natural disasters
• Your guide to disaster fundraising

Tips on how to respond to an earthquake

It's a good idea to have a disaster first aid kit. Keep it handy. Consider the placement of furniture. Secure them firmly. Do not place objects that are heavy or can fall easily in high places;

If you need to keep types of poisons and fire hazardous substances in your home, store them in tightly closed containers. One more piece of advice that we at the Pavel Andreev Foundation will give you is that the building exit should always be clear in case an evacuation is necessary.

Consider which is the safest place in the building and keep this in mind in the event of an earthquake. Remember that balconies, elevators, stairs and exterior walls are the most dangerous during an earthquake.

Prepare an earthquake action and evacuation plan and stick to it when the natural disaster starts.

What to do when you feel the first tremor?

The most important thing is to be able to keep your composure. Fear and panic are a person's worst enemies in situations where composure is required - it's a matter of survival.

We at the Pavel Andreev Foundation advise that if you find yourself indoors during an earthquake, take the following actions:

• You should not leave the building you are in. You may only take such action if you are able to leave the building for no more than 10 seconds;
• Take up a suitable position in the safest place in the building. Such places are under the door frame, near an interior, also called a load-bearing wall or column. An option is also to position yourself under a stable bed or table;
• It is important to remember that you should stay away from windows, glass, walls and exterior doors. In general - keep away from anything that is in danger of falling on you.

In case you are outdoors, move as quickly as possible to a safe place away from all possible trees, poles and buildings. Try to be at a distance not less than their height.

On the other hand, if you are in a car at the time of an earthquake, it is necessary to stop immediately and wait for it to pass. You should not stop near buildings, bridges, trees and power poles.

If the earthquake catches you on public transport, it is best to wait until its end inside the vehicle.

What to do after the first earthquake passes?

The first thing to do is turn off the electricity, water and gas. Otherwise, very dangerous consequences could result.

Take the "Disaster First Aid Kit" / should always be in a handy place / and leave the building as quickly as possible. Do not use the lift - take the stairs down.

When you leave the building, be sure to walk away to an open area. The distance should be at least equal to the height of the building closest to you.

Remember that you should not stand under power lines, tramways, trolleybuses or electricity grids. If there are casualties around you and you have the necessary skills, give them first aid. If you see places where people are stranded, mark them. If possible, try to help. Use a telephone for emergency calls only. Look out for up-to-date information - this is broadcast on local radio stations and the media. Obey the instructions of the authorities and do not disrupt public order.

What should you do after the earthquake?

Wait until information is broadcast that the earthquakes have subsided and the danger has passed. You may only re-enter the building after a basic inspection has been carried out and the competent authorities have checked. Also check the domestic electricity, gas, sewerage and water supply systems.

A gas leak can be very dangerous. If you hear a noise similar to a gas leak or smell one, leave the building quickly, opening a window beforehand. Turn off the gas supply via the outside main valve. If you have to turn the gas off, only specialists can turn it back on.

Check the electrical system for damage. If you notice sparks, frayed or torn wires, or smell burnt insulation, immediately disconnect the main power supply from the main bushing or the main shunt from the circuit.

Check the water pipes and drains for damage. If you suspect that the waste water drain is damaged, if possible, do not use the toilet until the fault has been rectified.

Immediately clean out poisons and spilled flammable liquids. Do not make unnecessary telephone calls to avoid overloading the lines. Notify your loved ones that you are alive and well with a short message. Remember, in the event of an earthquake, proper behavior can be life-saving!

Check out this 100% donation transparency article on PavelAndreev.ORG to learn more about us.

Organizing a charity campaign to help earthquake victims through the Pavel Andreev platform

If the scale of the natural disaster is more serious, it inevitably leaves behind material damage. There are people who lose their home or much of their belongings in an earthquake. If this happens to you or a loved one, no matter what caused it, you can set up a fundraiser to help earthquake victims by using our donation site. Many donors support the causes shared on PavelAndreev.ORG. If you need help, feel free to tell your story too. Among our supporters, you will surely find like-minded people to support your cause.