Natural disasters like earthquakes are becoming a more frequent occurrence, as a result of our changing climate. This might feel scary, particularly for children, but as ever the most important thing you can do is be prepared and educate your family.
Earthquakes are more common in certain parts of the world, but they can happen anywhere. To find out more about earthquake activity in your area, you can visit the website of the Euro-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, a non-profit dedicated to collecting and disseminating information about earthquakes.
In the wake of the recent earthquake in Myanmar, as well as previous events in Turkiye, we know that more than ever, people want to know how to keep themselves and their families safe during earthquakes.
That’s why our Smiley News journalists have put together some tips, including what to do if you are caught in an earthquake.
Getting somewhere safe is the most important thing to do during an earthquake. According to the American Red Cross, you should remember to Drop, Cover and Hold On.
Drop where you are to your hands and knees, so you can’t be knocked over.
Cover your head and neck; if there is a sturdy table or desk nearby, you should crawl under it, or move towards an inside wall (one with no windows to the outside).
Hold on to your cover or to your head and neck until the shaking stops.
According to Save the Children, a charity dedicated to keeping children safe all over the world, this starts long before an earthquake happens.
The best thing you can do is to do practice earthquake drills with your children, teaching them where to go during an earthquake and how to keep themselves safe. That way, whether you are with them or not, you can be sure they know how to take care of themselves.
The American Red Cross has a great video on their website to teach children what to do during an earthquake.
If your children go to school, make sure you know what their response is during a disaster, and talk it through with your kids. Additionally, make sure your emergency contact information is up to date with the school - emails, addresses and phone numbers - and your children know how to get hold of a trusted adult.
The best way to help people affected by earthquakes and other natural disasters is by donating or volunteering through a trusted charity. You shouldn’t try to offer in-person yourself without training or guidance from someone with experience.
Most recently, you may have seen the Myanmar earthquake in the news - if you want to know how to help these people, you can find out more in this article Smiley News wrote on charities assisting earthquake survivors.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The British Red Cross. This charity helps people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. They are part of a global voluntary network, responding to conflicts. Support them here.
CARE International UK. CARE is there to help people when they need it most. They are one of the world's leading humanitarian agencies, delivering life-saving assistance when disaster strikes. Find out more here.
Goods for Good. This is an organisation which offers global humanitarian aid by transporting donations such as industry overstock from generous partners to help communities in need. Learn more here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Partnership for the Goals.
