Many millions of people ~ not just the Spanish enjoy life on the Spanish Riviera. Why not, there are few places on earth that rival the region for perfect climate all year round and serenity.

The region is particularly prone to earthquakes and endures a massive one about every seventy years; the last occurred in 1884.

There has been a recent increase in tremors any one of which could portend calamity. There are things you can do to reduce the possibility of being harmed whilst protecting your assets.

BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

Discuss beforehand what you intend to do. Resolve to stay calm. Identify strong refuges in each room. Only if it is safe to do so get out and stay out in open spaces and stick together.

When on May 11, 2011, an unusually shallow earthquake struck Lorca situated close to Murcia and Almeria nine people died and over 300 were injured. Most of those who died or were harmed had not stayed in their homes in which case they were less likely to suffer. No, in a panic they had rushed from their homes and were hit by falling masonry.

Ensure everyone knows how to switch off incoming electricity, gas and water main switches. Segregate toxic and inflammable products.

Ensure all fittings are fixed securely; heavy objects are not on high shelves. Securely fasten anything that could cause damage if dislodged.

Pay special attention to heavy mirrors, pictures, and ornaments fitted over beds and settees. Position beds near supporting walls and corners.

Create a secure survival cache in which you can place a first aid kit, battery lighting, radio, mobile phone earpieces, torch, spare batteries; whistle, food and water.

Your mobile phone will likely have a radio facility so keep earphones in your survival cache. Put in your address system phone numbers for emergency services.

Have a builder check for structural faults to help you identify potential hazards such as weak chimneys and balconies; anything that could shake loose and cause damage on its way down.

Given the compactness of the Mediterranean a tsunami is unlikely though one rushing through the Straits of Gibraltar would suggest you find a higher or more inland refuge during an alert.

DURING A QUAKE

Stay calm and compose others; quakes rarely last more than a minute or so. If inside a building it may be wise to stay inside; if outside stay outside. Never use a lift. Unnecessary accidents occur when exiting or entering buildings. Go as far from buildings as you can.

If inside seek shelter in a corner; under a pillar, bed, strong table, overturned settee, or solid structure. Identify supporting walls and shelter by them. Never use a naked flame.

Keep away from all overhead structures, including bridges. If in a car pull up and stay with it unless on a bridge, viaduct or obvious landslip area. In case of fire, it is the smoke that kills. Get down, stay down and crawl out.

AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

Muster friends and family; encourage calm and have patience. Offer first aid but do not move any badly injured unless you know what you are doing or they are in danger. 

Avoid using phones; they are likely to be overwhelmed. Rely on radio broadcasts.

Think ahead. Be aware of potential hazards; loosened masonry and windows, bare wire, and fire risks. Aftershocks do occur to shake things loose. Be careful opening cupboards. Main’s water may be contaminated. Stay away from beaches. SHARE STORIES AND HELP SAVE LIVES

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