Earthquake Evacuation Tips! Things You Should Know If You Often Travel to Taiwan and Japan.

Recently, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Hualien County, Taiwan, with news of landslides, building collapses, and road damage flooding the headlines. As someone who often travels to Japan and Taiwan, do you also feel scared? We have compiled earthquake preparedness measures you can take before, during, and after an earthquake, so that when unexpected events occur, you can face them with more confidence!

Earthquakes are actually the energy released from the movement of tectonic plates, a normal phenomenon. Especially Taiwan and Japan, which you often visit, are located on the Pacific Ring of Fire. However, most earthquakes are minor, and the probability of encountering a major earthquake during your trip is also low. But it's still important to have relevant evacuation knowledge to keep yourself safer and make your journey smoother! Taiwan and Japan's earthquakes range from 0 to 7 on the Richter scale, indicating the severity of the tremors. Taiwan generally issues an evacuation alert when it reaches level 4. The recent earthquake even registered a weak 5 in Taipei, and the epicenter was more intense, hence the numerous news reports. In Taiwan and Japan, earthquakes between levels 4 and 5 can potentially damage buildings.

There are three major preparations before an earthquake: knowledge、insurance、and an earthquake notification app. Actually, evacuation strategies are also different in different places. If you are indoors, it is not recommended to stand in the center. You may think that there is nothing above your head to fall down, but in fact, if the earthquake is strong, the light fixtures and ceiling could collapse. It's better to be at the edge of the building. If you are driving, there are also evacuation guidelines, which will be explained later in the article. If you want to receive the most timely earthquake notifications, many apps now have this function. If a major earthquake occurs, it will give early notice. The recent earthquakes made many netizens also think that it is really effective! Here are 3 simple recommendations for everyone ~ * (Taiwan) KNY Taiwan Weather & Earthquake Report * (Taiwan) Central Weather Bureau E-Earthquake Report * (Taiwan) Taiwan Earthquake Report * (Japan) Safety tips In addition, when you buy travel insurance, also make sure it covers earthquake damage! We have previously compiled an article recommending travel insurance, which will review it for you again.

Different situations call for different earthquake evacuation methods. Here's a simple breakdown into three categories: **In shopping malls or indoor spaces:** Quickly find the nearest shelter, such as under a table, in a corner, or near a seismic pillar. Avoid areas near glass, large furniture, fragile items, or objects hanging from the ceiling. Whenever possible, avoid using elevators and take the stairs instead. Listen to evacuation instructions from staff and any building alarm signals. **In residential homes or offices:** While it was once thought that hiding near refrigerators or closets was safe, modern earthquakes can cause even fixed refrigerators to topple over! There's still debate on whether to immediately rush to open doors to avoid being trapped, but at least in the shortest possible time, crouch down, protect your head, and grasp a sturdy piece of furniture to minimize injuries. In buildings with only two floors, if you are upstairs during an earthquake, should you go downstairs? This incident also included cases where the entire ground floor collapsed, making escape from upstairs easier! **While driving:** Pull over to a clear space, away from bridges, overpasses, buildings, and power lines. Park safely and turn on your hazard lights. Use your phone or radio to get real-time earthquake updates. Gather your documents and driver's license before evacuating. If you are on a highway, slow down and pull over, following the instructions of local police. Above all, staying calm is crucial. In emergencies, your level head will help you react effectively. Panicking won't improve the situation!

When the earthquake ends, don't immediately let out a sigh of relief because aftershocks may still occur. At this time, you should quickly check yourself for injuries, confirm the damage to the building, and look after each other if there are people nearby. Then, listen for evacuation instructions or find an evacuation route. If you are unfortunately trapped, call for help. The most basic emergency numbers are 119 in Taiwan or 110 in Japan; remember them so you can get help promptly! We all hope to avoid accidents, but if they happen, the best way to save yourself is with the knowledge you have in your mind and your ability to remain calm and make judgments in the moment!