According to the measurement of the National Seismic Network, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred in Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province, China on May 12, 2008 at 14:28. Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Shanxi, Shaanxi, and other provinces and cities across the country felt noticeable tremors. News reports about the earthquake were broadcasted in various regions, and earthquake alarms were sounded. Many citizens started to go online to follow earthquake-related information.
Expectant mothers, who are carrying a baby in their bellies, are even more susceptible to unexpected events and stresses than ordinary people. However, we often cannot prevent various natural disasters and human-made accidents. Therefore, learning some coping techniques in advance can help us safely get through the moment of a disaster. So, how should expectant mothers protect themselves during a sudden earthquake?
1. Don't panic during a major earthquake
A destructive earthquake takes an average of only 12 seconds from the time people feel the vibrations to the time buildings are damaged. In this short period of time, you should quickly make decisions to ensure your safety based on your surroundings. If you live in a single-story house, you can quickly run outside without panicking. If you live in a multi-story building, do not attempt to jump off the building in a moment of panic. Instead, immediately turn off the electricity and gas, take shelter in a small space like a bathroom or crouch under a sturdy piece of furniture like a table or bed. After the earthquake, evacuate quickly to avoid strong aftershocks. Pregnant women in the late stages of pregnancy should be cautious about running, as excessive anxiety can lead to premature birth.
2. Find a hiding place when there are many people
In places with crowds such as schools, shops, and theaters, if an earthquake occurs, it is important to avoid panic. Immediately take cover next to a desk, chair, or sturdy object and wait for the earthquake to pass before evacuating in an organized manner. Due to limited mobility, it is not recommended for expectant mothers to crouch down. It is better to kneel or sit and hold onto a sturdy object such as a table leg. It is also advisable to find something to protect the belly to prevent serious consequences from accidental impacts.
3. Self-protection in different situations
If you encounter an earthquake on the street, cover your head with your hands and quickly move away from buildings to the center of the street. If you are in a rural area, be mindful of staying away from cliffs, steep slopes, riverbanks, and high-voltage lines. If you are indoors during an earthquake, avoid glass doors and windows, glass display cabinets, or shelves with heavy or fragile objects. If you are in a vehicle, stop the car but do not rush to get out. Stay inside the car until the earthquake is over. Hold onto the handrail and lower your center of gravity to avoid falling or getting injured.
4. Preserve energy if buried
If unfortunately buried under debris after the earthquake, try to remain calm and find a way to rescue yourself. If escape is not possible, preserve your energy and try to find water and food to create survival conditions. Be patient and wait for rescue. Expectant mothers should stay calm after a disaster and avoid crying or screaming excessively, as it will consume energy. On the other hand, our emotions have a significant impact on the baby in the belly. Intense emotional stimulation can be extremely harmful to the growth and development of the fetus. So, try to stay positive for yourself and for the baby in your belly.
5. Keep a mobile phone and spare batteries nearby
If you have a mobile phone with you before the earthquake, make sure to keep it in good condition as it is the best tool for you to stay in contact with others.
In addition, if an earthquake occurs when expectant mothers are in crowded public places, they should listen to the instructions of the on-site staff, remain calm, and avoid rushing towards the exit. Avoid getting squeezed against walls or fences. After the earthquake, follow the instructions of the staff and evacuate in an organized manner.
