For millions of years, the process of moving tectonic plates has been going on on Earth. In the depths of our planet, this was happening even before the appearance of man and continues now.

During an earthquake, underground shocks occur, as a result of which the earth's surface shakes. An earthquake is measured on a 12-point scale:

• One ball is considered minimal and people usually cannot feel it;
• A two-point earthquake is very weak, and at this time the shaking is noticeable only on high floors;
• During a three-point earthquake, the chandelier is already shaking;
• In the case of Okhbaliani, tremors were felt in the entire building;
• A five-point earthquake is already considered strong. At this time, the shaking is felt both in the building and on the street;
• In the case of six bales, the furniture moves, the dishes fall from the cupboards and maybe the window panes are broken;
• Seven Bali is already a very strong earthquake. It is at this time that an additional danger of fire, accident or short circuit appears along with a strong vibration;
• Eight, nine and ten earthquakes are considered destructive. At this time, brick buildings are collapsing, cracks appear in the soil, the river and reservoirs start to swell;
• Eleven and twelve earthquakes are called catastrophic.

During such seismic activity, our actions and decisions are of utmost importance, as one wrong step could cost us our lives.

First let's explain what causes buildings to collapse. First of all, it should be said that science and architecture, in this case, are closely related. Specialists constantly warn the responsible persons that particularly durable buildings should be built in seismically active zones. Also during an earthquake, it is important how the building is located in the area, because sometimes the ground itself cannot withstand the seismic waves, as a result of which it becomes an unstable mass, which can no longer hold the weight from above, and as a result, the building standing on it collapses. Another risk factor at this time is an insufficiently durable foundation, the change and disintegration of which will lead to the collapse of the entire building.

To avoid danger during an earthquake, several actions are recommended:

If you are indoors:

• Stay put! Crawl under a table or other hard furniture and stick your hands underneath, preferably covering your head and neck with your hands to prevent possible injury. Move away from windows, fireplaces, heavy furniture and appliances;
• Keep away from objects that may fall, such as chandeliers, wall cabinets, etc;
• Leave the kitchen immediately, because the furniture may fall from the wall;
• Do not run for the stairs or fall outside until the shaking stops. As studies have shown, a large number of people are injured mainly when leaving buildings;
• Do not use the elevator.
  
  

If you are on the street:

• If you are on the street, try to move away from buildings, traffic lights, power lines and go to a relatively open, empty space;
• If you are driving, pull over and stop. Do not stand under bridges, power lines or road signs;
• Keep an eye out for things you might drop!

If you fall into the rubble:

• Keep calm and save your energy!
• Move as little as possible to avoid creating dust;
• cover the nose and mouth with a napkin or clothes;
• Do not light a match;
• Knock on a nearby pipe or wall to let rescuers know where you are;
• If you have a whistle with you, blow it to alert the rescuers. Screaming is recommended only in extreme cases.
  
  

What to do after an earthquake:

• Do not enter the building, because the building may collapse due to repeated earthquakes;
• Act according to the recommendations, wait for official information about the next shocks;
• Do not stay at home if you hear strange noises coming from the walls. This may indicate that it will soon collapse;
• Turn off the gas, especially if you smell it;
• Do not use a lighter or a match in this case either, their relatively safe alternative is a flashlight;
• Finally, and most importantly, keep calm, as this will help save yourself and others.

What can we do in advance to be prepared for an earthquake?

Before an earthquake, it is recommended to hang only light objects near your bed and couch. Secure mirrors, pictures, and other heavy objects securely and away from them. It is advisable to place the bookcase and similar furniture away from the bed and sofa. Place heavy and breakable items on lower shelves.

Learn in advance which place in your home is the safest and let your family members know about it. Learn how to provide first aid to an injured person during an earthquake. Find out in advance where the building's fire plan is, how to turn off electricity, gas and water. Also find out where the evacuation plan is posted at your workplace.