What is an Earthquake?
An earthquake is a shift in the upper layers of the Earth caused by the movement of tectonic plates; natural divisions within the planet’s surface. Though the specifics of plate tectonics are relatively complex, it should be understood that there are three major kinds of tectonic boundaries, categorized by their activities: these are divergent, convergent, and transform boundaries.
When friction occurs along the edges of the plates due to their natural shifting, an earthquake occurs. The earthquake begins deep within the Earth at a place called the focus. The area of the Earth’s surface directly above this point is known as the epicenter. Earthquakes are measured by devices called seismographs, which record the seismic waves of energy released by earthquakes as they happen. Seismographs are mainly used in early detection of earthquakes, but they are also helpful for measuring the duration and intensity of a quake. The strength of a quake is measured according to the Richter Intensity Scale.
Preventative Measures
When possible, the most obvious way to avoid earthquake danger is to avoid common places where earthquakes occur. Earthquakes are extremely uncommon in inland areas far from tectonic plates.
Seismicity of Ukraine becomes apparent in western, southwestern and southern areas, where two basic seismic regions are allocated: Carpathian and Crimean-Black Sea.
Seismicity of the Carpathian region is defined by earthquakes with fires in Zakarpattya, Carpathians, Prykarpattya and also in the nearby territories of neighbouring countries: Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania. The most seismoactive is Zakarpattya.
Seismicity of the Crimean-Black Sea region is defined by the epicenters of the earthquakes located in the water area of the Black sea, near the Southern coast of Crimea which are characterised by the highest indicators throughout the Ukrainian territory: magnitudes up to 6.8. On the flat part of Crimea and the Sea of Azov fires of earthquakes with magnitudes over 1.0 are shown. It is possible to consider the delta of Danube as separate seismic area.
If you must be in an area where earthquakes are possible, there are important steps to take before and during the event. Fasten shelves securely, placing heavy objects on lower shelves and breakable items inside latched cabinets, check wiring, gas lines, and walls for faults and cracks that might contribute to fire. Stock up on supplies like flashlights, batteries, food and water, and medicines. During an earthquake, drop to the ground and take cover under a heavy piece of furniture. An inside corner is the safest place to wait for shaking to stop. Stay away from windows, light fixtures and subjects that might fall, and avoid outside doors or walls. Remember that ground movement is relatively rare as a cause of death or injury from an earthquake; most earthquake fatalities take place due to collapsing walls, shattered glass, and impacts from falling items.
Earthquakes are dangerous natural disaster s, and can strike suddenly, but they are confined to very specific areas. As in any crisis, it is vital to become informed and take the right precaution s in order to minimize danger and to keep the basic rules of safety for saving lives.
3. Read the list given below. Which of the following would be considered acceptable normal behavior during the earthquake?
1) Remain calm and careful.
2) Cry, to run around the room.
3) Stand calmly near the window hoping for the help.
4) Drop to the ground and take cover under a heavy piece of furniture.
5) Lean to the outdoor wall and read a book not to worry.
6) Stay in inside corner.
7) Call to your relatives to speak about the changeability of life.
8) Stay away from windows, bookcases, heavy mirrors, hanging plants, and other heavy objects that could fall.
9) Remain calm and reassure others.
10) Check gas, water and electric lines. If damaged, shut off service. If gas is leaking, don’t use matches, flashlights, appliances or electric switches.
