(Posted:30-Nov--0001)

Earthquake is a disaster that cannot be prevented, however, taking proper measures, damage to lives and properties can be minimized. In that case, the important aspect is construction of building and other establishments. This is because of the fact, that if houses are made of lighter raw materials instead of heavier raw materials, the rescuing can be done easily and, also the deaths and damage would be less. During building construction, we must install earthquake prevention technology otherwise a big earthquake could be disastrous for us. In addition, if an earthquake strikes, the rescue operation and relief supply must be ensured as early as possible on urgent basis. In this case, co-ordination between government and non-government organizations is required. Also prior preparation must be taken. There are several issues to be taken seriously and they are: 1. We must have clear idea about our residence and we have to know the risk of earthquake. We should not stay in a risky high rise building. 2. We must have arrangements so that we can survive even if there is no supply of food, water etc. for few days. 3. We also should keep in mind that in addition to ourselves, family members and neighbours, we have to take care of other people also. 4. We must have preparation for immediate response. In that case, fire service, hospitals, medicine, schools or law enforcing agencies etc. should be considered. 5. For faster rescuing, electricity, water, roads, and cell phone everything should be arranged. 6. For the rehabilitation of the affected people, short and long term measures need to be taken. 7. We should have estimation for probable damage to be caused by earthquake and a prior planning is necessary for that. 8. Some dry food, water, torch, small radio, battery, first aid kit, medicine, whistles, fire extinguisher etc. should be kept within reach of our hand.