For Shake’s sake

I made a list called For Shake’s sake. Trying to be light-hearted in a situation that actually scares me a lot. The first time in my life I am truly afraid of something. Because of it’s unknown and I cannot influence it if it happens. Yet, it is part of my new circle of life.

Earthquakes have a certain level, not very big, though, of predictability. Authorities who monitor the movements of the earth, cannot tell exactly beforehand when it will happen. But they are now anticipating a “Big One”, as there is a certain cycle that high magnitude quakes happen. The one we are now waiting for is already overdue.

Be prepared, they say

I have been learning many new things about the severity of an earthquake in the last couple of days. One of the locals who helps us to find a new apartment to rent, said that “Don’t worry, you are safe here. This building has been built according to Japanese standards and can take 8.0 magnitude of a shake. If it will be stronger it doesn’t matter because we will probably be all gone anyway.”

Rescue forces participated in the Big Drill in Eastwood on July 30, 2015

 

A large scale drill was organised to remind us about what can happen. It was in many news globally. If you want to read more, just google some of the words like Metro Manila, shake drill, earthquake, Philippines, news.

Locals are really well prepared for disaster recoveries. Every citizen was aware of The Drill.

 

The list

The number of items you should take with you when leaving your home in the case of earthquake, is about as much as when you go for hiking in harsh, tropical conditions for several days.

• Important documents (passport, certificates, bank documents, ID card etc.)
• Camera
• Computer
• Mobile phone
• Extra power pack
• Battery-radio
• Torch, batteries
• Medicines
• First Aid kit
• Emergency cash
• Multifunctional pocket knife
• Matches
• Plastic bags, some rope
• Spare clothes for 3 days (trousers, shirts, underwear)
• Toothbrush and paste
• Plastic fork and spoon
• Canned food, dried fruit, nuts etc.
• minimum 6 litres of drinking water

We live in a high rise building with more than 20 floors below us. Like in the case of fire, you cannot use lifts to get out if an earthquake hits. Running down the stairs with full hiking gear on will be an experience on its own, this one spiced up with a fear of life. I am not looking forward to this.