Nationwide Preparedness Exercise
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), known in New Zealand as Te Rākau Whakamarumaru, recently led the country in the annual New Zealand ShakeOut. This nationwide exercise is designed to remind residents of the critical actions required to stay safe during a significant earthquake and to understand the necessary steps to take if a tsunami follows.
The 'Drop, Cover and Hold' Protocol
The core of the drill focuses on the internationally recognized 'Drop, Cover and Hold' technique. Officials emphasize that this simple action is the most effective way to protect oneself from falling objects and structural hazards during shaking. Participants across the country, including schools, businesses, and households, practiced the following steps:
- Drop: Get down on your hands and knees.
- Cover: Take cover under a sturdy table or desk.
- Hold: Hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops.
Tsunami Awareness and Evacuation
Beyond earthquake safety, the drill serves as a vital reminder for those in coastal areas to recognize natural warning signs of a tsunami. NEMA advises that if an earthquake is long or strong, people should 'get gone'—meaning they should move immediately to higher ground or as far inland as possible once the shaking ceases. The exercise encourages communities to map out their evacuation routes and establish meeting points well in advance of an actual emergency.
Building a Resilient Nation
The annual event is part of a broader strategy to foster a culture of preparedness in New Zealand, a country located on the boundary of the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates. By participating in the ShakeOut, the agency aims to reduce anxiety and increase the likelihood of correct decision-making during real seismic events. Officials stated that 'preparedness is a shared responsibility' and urged all residents to maintain emergency kits and stay informed through official channels.
0 Comments