Cebu City -- The Department of Health CVCHD conducted an earthquake drill for their employees 10 March 2022. The National Nutrition Council (NNC) Region VII official and staff participated in the drill to be aware and prepared if a natural phenomenon occurs. Safety precautions like the duck, cover, and hold were observed, and there was also a play of first aid respondents during the drill.

An earthquake is a natural phenomenon that scientists cannot determine when and where it may happen. That is why now and then, a drill must be practiced among employees who need to know the dos and don’ts during an emergency like this. 

Safety is the utmost important aspect of any phenomenon, may it be man-made or natural-occurring. Here are some reminders on what to be observed during an earthquake:

• Duck-cover-hold maneuver. One should take cover under a sturdy desk or table. If the table moves, move with it. If a cover is not available, one should drop to their knees and away from windows, then do the "turtle position" by keeping knees together and clasping both hands firmly behind the head. 
• Everyone should remain in the building until the shaking has stopped. The staff should resist the urge to escape from the building. 
• Don’t talk, don’t push, don’t run, and don’t turn back during evacuation. It is recommended to have a buddy system during the evacuation. Make sure that the paths are cleared toward the exit. 

These are only some of the important reminders. For more detailed procedures, you can visit your local disaster risk reduction management office or visit their official website. Always remember through preparedness a lot can be prevented. // NO I Christine April M. Lopez, RND