Protecting Valuables During an Earthquake in the Philippines

The Philippines is situated in a region that experiences many earthquakes. Because of this, it is very important to take steps to protect yourself and your family during these events. While safety during an earthquake is the most important thing, it is also wise to think about how to keep your valuable items safe. This article will share several practical ways to prepare for an earthquake and help protect your most important belongings in the Philippines.

Before an Earthquake: Get Ready

Preparing before an earthquake occurs is vital. By following some simple steps, you can better protect your belongings and lessen the potential damage.

• Make a List of Valuables: Begin by creating a thorough list of your valuables. Include descriptions, when you bought them, and their estimated value. Taking pictures and videos can also be useful for making insurance claims later. Keep this list in a safe place that you can easily reach, and consider saving it digitally in the cloud in case your home computer is damaged.
• Secure Large Items: Furniture and appliances that are tall can easily fall during an earthquake. Make sure to secure bookshelves, cabinets, and wardrobes to the wall with straps or brackets. Heavier appliances like refrigerators should also be anchored. This not only keeps your items safe but may also protect you from injury caused by falling objects.
• Inspect Your Home Regularly: Look around your house regularly to check for any damage. Watch for cracks in walls, floors, or the foundation. Fix any problems right away since this can reduce the risk of serious damage when an earthquake happens.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: An emergency kit is essential. It should contain things like bottled water, canned food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a portable radio, extra batteries, medications, and copies of important documents in a waterproof bag. Make sure the kit is easy to carry in case you need to leave your home quickly.
• Find Safe Spots: Know the safe places in your home, such as under sturdy tables or desks, or away from windows on interior walls. You should also know the escape routes in case you need to leave quickly. Make sure everyone in your home is aware of these spots and routes.
• Think About Earthquake Insurance: Look into earthquake insurance options available in the Philippines. Understand what is covered and if the policy is a good fit for your needs and financial situation.

During an Earthquake: Stay Safe

When an earthquake begins, your immediate focus should be on your safety and then on securing your valuables if possible. Staying calm is very important, so remember these steps:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: The most crucial rule is to “Drop to the floor, take Cover under a strong piece of furniture, and Hold On to it until the shaking stops.” This is the main safety technique to remember.
• Avoid Hazards: Stay away from windows, glass doors, tall furniture, and anything that could fall from above. Watch out for hanging items that might drop during the shaking.
• Secure Valuables Quickly: If you can do so safely, try to secure fragile items like small electronics by moving them to a safer place under cover while you hold on. Avoid reaching for items on high shelves, as they are more likely to cause injury if they fall.
• Stay Inside: Wait for the shaking to stop before going outside. It can be dangerous to run out during the tremors, as you may encounter falling debris.

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• If You’re Outside: Move to an open space away from buildings, trees, utility poles, and streetlights. This will help you avoid potential hazards.

After an Earthquake: Check and Recover

Once the shaking stops, it’s important to act carefully and systematically to ensure everyone’s safety and evaluate the damage to your belongings.

• Look for Injuries: The first thing you should do is check yourself and others around you for injuries. Provide first aid if necessary and seek help for serious injuries.
• Evaluate Damage: When it’s safe to do so, assess the damage to your home. Look for signs of structural damage, leaks, or electrical issues. Avoid entering any areas with major structural harm.
• Document the Damage: Before making repairs, take clear photos of the damage to your home and valuables. This documentation can be critical for your insurance claims.
• Secure Your Area: If your home is damaged and unsafe, secure the area to prevent theft. If your home remains habitable, make sure to turn off gas or electricity if there are signs of damage to the lines.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: If you have earthquake insurance, get in touch with your provider as soon as possible to file your claim. Provide your inventory list, photographs of the damage, and all necessary paperwork.
• Be Mindful of Aftershocks: Aftershocks usually follow a significant earthquake, so stay alert. Continue to follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” guidelines when you feel an aftershock.

Protecting Specific Valuables

Different types of valuables require different protective strategies. Here are some tips for keeping certain items safe:

• Jewelry and Small Items: Store jewelry and small valuable items in a strong, fire-resistant, and waterproof safe that is attached securely to the wall or floor. For small family heirlooms that you want to display, consider glass cabinets with secure latches that are also fastened to the wall.
• Important Documents: Essentials like passports, birth certificates, and property deeds should be kept in a waterproof and fire-resistant safe or container. It’s also a good idea to have digital copies stored in the cloud for easy access.
• Electronics: To secure larger electronics, you can use straps or anchors. Smaller devices like laptops and cameras can be stored in a protective case inside a secure location.
• Art and Antiques: If you possess valuable art or antiques, consider consulting a professional for tips on how to best protect and secure them during an earthquake. They might suggest certain mounting methods or storage options.
• Personal Mementos: Some items might not have monetary value but could hold great sentimental value. Keep these treasured items in a secure place where they are less likely to be harmed.

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• Cash: Maintain a small amount of cash in your emergency kit, allowing you to purchase necessary items immediately after an earthquake, especially if other payment methods are down.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: How frequently do earthquakes occur in the Philippines?

  A: The Philippines is often struck by earthquakes because it is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire. They can occur at any time without warning.

• Q: Is hiding under a doorway a safe option during an earthquake?

  A: Modern houses are not built to ensure doorways are stronger than other parts of the house. It’s safer to remember “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” under a sturdy table instead.

• Q: Should I turn off the gas and electricity after an earthquake?

  A: Yes, if you can see any damage to the gas or electric lines, turn them off to avoid potential fires or other dangers.

• Q: How do I find the right earthquake insurance?

  A: Look into different insurance options, weigh the coverage against costs, and choose a plan that aligns well with your personal needs and financial situation. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions carefully.

• Q: Can I use existing materials to help secure my furniture?

  A: Yes, existing straps, L-brackets, or other hardware can work as long as they are strong enough to hold the furniture securely in place.

References

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)

Red Cross Philippines

International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies