Police and Ambulance: 110 (24 hours) Fire: 119 (24 hours)
Foreign Affairs Police Station:07-2154342(24 hours)
(a) Earthquake readiness
Earthquakes hit Taiwan from time to time, especially along the east coast. However, the September 21st, 1999 (9/21) earthquake was a good reminder that a strong earthquake can strike anywhere unexpectedly. It is recommended that you pay close attention to the following guidelines:
- Prepare some drinking water, dried and canned food, a first aid kit, a flashlight and portable radio (with spare batteries). Place them in a bag that is located in an easily accessible place for the entire family.
- Familiarize yourself with the emergency exits in your building, and safe routes near your home. The family should agree with each other as how to make contact, and decide on a convenient place to gather in the eventuality that an earthquake occurs.
- Schools, companies and public places should hold emergency drills on a regular basis. They should also set up volunteer groups to help, direct and encourage others.
- Do not construct additional (illegal) floors and/or structures to your house or apartment. Do not demolish walls, pillars and columns, as this will severely weaken the structure.
- Place heavier objects in low lying places and secure them. Try to avoid using ceiling fans and lamps.
- Check that the electrical system in your home is in good order. Ensure that gas cylinders are not damaged in any way; get them repaired or replaced if they are. Ensure that the whole family knows how to use the gas supply safely.
(b) What to do during an earthquake
- Remain calm as this will help you to cope with the situation more effectively. Stay with the people nearest you to protect them. Do not attempt to leave the premises.
- . Turn off the electricity and gas to avoid fire. If you are unable to do so, turn off any electrical appliances that might cause a fire; for example, an iron, a toaster, or a TV
- Open the front door. During an earthquake the door and doorframe could buckle, rendering the door inoperative.
- Cover your head with a pillow and find a safe place to hide; for example, under a desk, next to a corner of a wall, or a strong door frame. Stay away from windows, glass objects, ceiling fans and lights, and any other bulky furniture and dangerous objects that might hit you.
- When on a higher floor, search for shelter where you are.
- Do not use elevators.
- Do not swarm into emergency exits or elevators, as this will cause congestion.
(c) Post earthquake recovery
- Extinguish any fires, or prevent them from spreading.
- If you smell gas, do not use any electrical devices (including light switches), and do not smoke. This is to prevent an explosion. Open all windows immediately to ventilate the premises.
- Remove objects beside electrical wires.
- Where possible help those in need.
- If it is possible, call your family and friends to tell them that you are safe. Phone lines should be used for emergency calls only, not to chat.
- Listen to the radio for updates on the earthquake and other emergency information.
- Check all water, electricity and gas lines. If any are damaged, switch them off immediately.
- Check for cracks and fissures; if any pillars or columns have been damaged, exit the premises immediately.
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