KINGSTON, Jamaica — Earthquakes and tsunamis are an ever-present threat to Jamaica. The country’s location on multiple geological faults subjects it to up to an average of 200 earthquakes per year.
This natural disposition, Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) Director General, Major Clive Davis, told JIS News, is the reason earthquake and tsunami preparations are critical components of the entity’s Disaster Management Programme.
He said that lives can be saved by following the procedures that exist to prepare for and manage such disasters.
While persons are aware of the safety measures during an earthquake, such as standing in a strong doorway or crawling beneath a desk or table, there are things that they can do before a seismic event in order to mitigate damage and loss.
In the home and workplace, it is advised that shelves and tall, standing furniture be bolted to the wall.
Also, persons should avoid hanging mirrors and heavy photographs over sitting areas and use Velcro to secure fragile items or light appliances displayed on shelves and bookcases. It is also vital to ensure that the foundation of the building is strong.
The ODPEM continues to share these safety measures through presentations and earthquake drills in schools and communities islandwide.
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