Did you know that in 2021, a total of 2,047 earthquakes with magnitude of 5 or more were recorded worldwide? If the ground starts shaking right now, what will you do? There is no“earthquake season.”Everyone, everywhere, should know how to protect themselves. FOCUS helps communities to prepare for and respond to disasters by increasing public awareness, holding drills and facilitating disaster management planning.The AKDN ShakeOut drill, facilitated by FOCUS,has been organized to enable participants to experience first-hand the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” method which offers the best chance of survival in the first moments of a major earthquake.Most earthquake-related injuries and loss of life are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass, falling objects, and efforts to run away during an earthquake.“Drop, Cover, and HoldOn” is a simple and effective response that will save lives.
The National Council Safety & Security team encourages all families to frequently practice earthquake drills at home to be prepared. Take a look at the videos below to learn more:
How to take cover under a desk
How to protect yourself in the absence of a desk
How to protect yourself if you have a disability
Furthermore, as we approach the festive season, the Safety & Security would like to advise the Jamat to be cautious during this time.
Safety and security tips when at home: While enjoying the festivities at the comfort of your homes, it is advisable that you adhere to the following:
- Make friends with your neighbors. In tight knit communities, people look out for each other. Neighbors can report suspicious activity at your home and help when you are away or in need.
- Deter thieves from targeting your house by ensuring a clear line of sight from the street. Cut back trees and bushes that obscure your front door. If possible, consider installing motion detection sensor lights.
- Ensure proper lighting of all areas within your home.
- Ensure doors and gates are properly locked at night. Never lock a gate using a padlock from the outside at night.
- Ensure you have emergency contacts in place such as the police, ambulances, firefighters etc.
- If your car has an alarm system, always sleep with the remote by your bedside. If you have cause to suspect that someone is trying to forcefully gain entrance into your home, activate the alarm because in a residential environment, the alarm may appear to sound very loud and hopefully it will scare the criminals away.
- While driving home, lookout for cars following you, those parked too close to your gate and watch out for unfamiliar individuals in your neighborhood.
- Do not allow your driver, gatemen or any of your home staff to know your travel/daily itinerary.
- Guard your keys from unauthorized persons because they are easily copied and can thus provide burglars with fast, no-fuss access to your home/house.
Don’t leave signs you are away: If you are going to be away from home for a long period of time, remember to cancel any daily subscription deliveries. Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked and ask a reliable neighbor or a trusted friend to check on your home and inform you in case of any suspicious activity.
Be careful about what you post online: It is always exciting to share holiday memories, but avoid posting too much information about your travel plans on social media. Criminals are alerted on social media of your absence and movements therefore the chances of breaking into your house or being robbed increases.
Safety and security tips while traveling: If you decide to have a road trip or drive to a distant area to enjoy your holidays, it is recommended that you adhere to the following safety and security measures:
- Before you leave, ensure that your motor vehicle is in sound working condition and that the spare wheel is inflated.
- Plan your route carefully before leaving and ensure that you create enough time to rest at a safe area.
- If you leave for an isolated place, leave your details with a trustworthy person who can call for help if you do not return at a designated time.
- Do not make unscheduled stops in insecure areas. If you have a flat tyre, manage the car to a properly lit place.
- Do not use your cellular phone while driving as it distracts your attention. Don’t drink and drive.
Safety and security tips at hotels, resorts, guest houses and other accommodation: If spending the holidays at a hotel, remember to adhere to the following:
- Never leave your luggage unattended unless it is locked away in your room. Do not leave your valuables unsecured in the hotel room. Store them in a safe or safety deposit box and keep your room locked at all times.
- Do not allow strangers into your room. If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door. Hand your keys in at the reception whenever you leave your room.