TSUNAMIS
SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERS & PERSONNEL WORKING IN DISASTER-AFFECTED AREAS
A tsunami is a series of waves caused by an earthquake, a powerful volcanic eruption or an underwater landslide.
For people living near the coast, all earthquakes and major ground rumblings should serve as a warning signal. A rapid rise or fall in coastal waters is also a sign that a tsunami is approaching.
You should know that…
Tsunamis travel at high speeds; they move faster than an Olympic sprinter and sometimes as fast as a speed boat.
Don’t assume that the danger is over after one wave hits the shore. The next wave may be larger than the first.
Before
Make a plan, prepare and rehearse!
Monitor tsunami warning channels, and have a way to warn others.
Agree on a regroup point and tsunami protocols.
Determine multiple routes to a regroup point, taking into account panicked traffic flows, possible road congestion and potentially damaged roads.
During
Move immediately to higher ground when the tsunami warning sounds.
Never go down to the beach to watch a tsunami come in.
If you can see the wave, you cannot outrun it. No one can.
Go to higher ground or upper floors.
Even if the first wave is small, the next one may be much bigger and more destructive, so take quick action.
After
Remember that even though the water is gone, you still may be in danger.
Contact your supervisor and team members to make sure all are OK and confirm their location.
Avoid moving water.
Beware areas where water has receded because roads may be weak and unsafe.
Clean and disinfect everything that has gotten wet because the water may contain sewage and chemicals.
Scan news reports to learn whether the water is safe for drinking.