Reducing earthquake destructions

Buildings should be built away from active fault lines. They should also be built on solid grounds such as rocks so that the buildings will not topple over easily. Steel structures shuld be flexible enough to sway with ground movement without toppling. They should also be mounted on shoch-absorbing rubber blocks to decrease the transmission of earthquake energy.

Outbreaks of fires can be limited by installing all gas pipes and electricity supplies with automatic shutoffs.

Earthquake drills can also be conducted to help prepare the people mentally and physically. This way, deaths can be reduced. The governments of earthquake-prone countries should have adequate shelters, medicine, food and plans ready for emergencies. There should also be tsunami warning systems to alert the people.

When an earthquake occurs, people should move away from falling objects, tall trees, buildings and power lines. They can also stand under door frames or couch under tables to prevent themselves from getting hit.

Lesser deaths can be prevented if earthquakes can be predicted before hand. However, it is up to the people to co-operate with the authorities during evacuations.

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