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Emergency Plan for Tsunamis

by Tradepla

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake killed more than 225,000 people
in eleven countries and inundated coastal communities with waves
up to 30 meters or 100 feet. It was one of the deadliest natural
disasters in history.India,Indonesia,Sri Lanka and Thailand were
the hardest hit.

Tsunamis used to be the stuff of movies and until its
devastation in Asia in 2004.Most people did not think it was
possible for tsunamis to occur in that magnitude. After the
Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, people have become aware of the
risk and possible consequences of this natural calamity.

What is a tsunami - Tsunamis are not caused by strong winds but
by tectonic displacements (earthquakes, volcano eruptions,
landslides) that occur on the seafloor.  Earthquakes that produce
tsunamis are those that reach 6.5 or more on the Richter scale. 
The average speed of the waves is 300 mph and can last from 5
minutes to an hour.

In open sea, tsunamis usually go unnoticed, having amplitudes of
just 1 meter or even less.  However, in some situations, waves
that enter shallow water can swell to several feet and in some
rare cases, rise high enough to strike coastal areas with
terrible force.

Who's at risk - People who live in coastal areas located along
or near the Pacific Ocean are most prone to tsunamis.  This area
is most vulnerable because of seismic activity in what is called
the Ring of Fire.  It has also occurred in Puerto Rico, Alaska,
Hawaii and the Virgin Islands.What what should we do in a tsunami
emergency?

1.Leave the water immediately - When a strong earthquake is
felt, leave the water immediately, get to shore and go as far
away as you can from the beach, fast.  If your location allows
it, go to a higher ground.  If the area you are in is mostly
flat, go as far inland as you can.  If you can spot the wave, you
are too close to escape it, regardless of its apparent distance.

2.Tune in to your local radio station - the weather radio or
turn on the TV for news and updates.  They will inform you if
there is a tsunami watch or warning issued in your area and where
the emergency centers are.

3.Locate all members of your family and make sure everyone is
informed -  Agree on a place to meet in case you're not together
and make sure it's safe and as far away from the shore as
possible.

4.Evacuate those with special needs first - If you have family
members who have special needs like elderly people, small
children or infants and those with disabilities, you might want
to evacuate early.  You might also want to prepare your pets for
moving, so bring emergency supplies for them as well.

4.Check your emergency supply kits and bring them with you -  It
would be a good idea if they had been regularly restocked but if
not, take what you can or get what is needed if you still have
the time and opportunity.  Otherwise, opt to get water, food and
extra clothes instead.

5.You might want to secure your house, but remember that this is
the last priority - Your life and that of your family's are the
most important considerations during a tsunami emergency.  Expect
items in your house to be swept away and if you could still
secure them, do so.

Tsunami Watch vs. Tsunami Warning - A tsunami watch is different
from a tsunami warning.  A tsunami watch means that the presence
of a dangerous tsunami is not yet confirmed or verified, although
it is possible there is one.  It also includes predictions on
what time the tsunami is expected and where it will possibly
strike.

A tsunami warning means that there is a confirmed tsunami in
your area and it could be close.  The warning will include the
time at which the tsunami is expected and which areas are
affected.

When the tsunami is about to hit you - If you find yourself
under the mercy of an incoming wave, climb onto the rooftop of
your house or on the highest point of the nearest structure and
brace yourself.  Hold on tightly to anything that's strong and
stable enough.  Climb a tree if you have to and don not let go.

When the tsunami has hit you - If you're already in the water,
grab a floating object that can hold your weight and hold onto it
until you can reach stable ground or when help is available. 
Grab onto anything that is firm and strive to get out of the
water as much as possible.  The current will be strong and there
could be heavy and sharp debris in the water that could crash
into you.

Tsunamis, like most things nature produces, are uncontrollable. 
The only advantage is that they do come with a warning,such as a
strong earthquake.  The only way to survive it is to be prepared,
be ready to go and to keep your wits about you.

Paul Hata is active in various social  and community programs
aimed at providing equal access to education,health and jobs to
all.Paul has over 10 years experience in managing a multi-million
dollar advertising company.Paul can be reached at - <a
href="http://www.searchanythingworldwide.com">SearchAnythingWorldwide.com</a>

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