Although there already are articles that talk about safety tips during earthquakes, but I decided to start a new thread regarding the “what to dos” during earthquakes because this focuses on the matter of which principle is best – the triangle of life theory or the traditional get under tables? So that readers can directly read and/or comment on this specific issue.
To completely discredit the triangle of life theory can be wrong. Though, I do not say that it is safer than taking cover under tables. It happens on case to case basis. There were instances in previous earthquakes that in ruined structures, there actually were spaces created by falling debris and these spaces saved lives.
Likewise, if a person takes cover under tables, one can be protected from falling debris, assuming that the falling objects are not too heavy to crush the table. But if the table is too weak to protect the person because it is the concrete wall that falls on it, then the wall crushes the table and the person beneath it. Many have died because they got crushed by debris.
So, it's always good to modify. Of course, the traditional “stop, duck/drop and cover” teaching ALWAYS applies. But the “cover” thing does not always mean cover under tables. It also implies that one can simply cover oneself with books, bags or other stuffs for protection against light falling objects.
This is how I answer questions of almost the same concern, “triangle of life or under tables”? …
--- If you can find a sturdy/durable table, then go under and hold on to it and wait until the shaking stops, then follow the usual procedure.
--- If you can’t find one, then go to the nearest furniture or other stuffs that is higher than a ducking person, stay by its side keeping the ducked or prone position.
--- Also, you can go to the nearest wall, duck, and follow important procedures. The furniture and walls can serve as buttresses for falling huge objects thus, creating a space that is known as the “triangle of life”.
--- If a sturdy table stands very close to the wall, then that is the best hiding place for you as both the table and wall serve as protection.
--- If possible, do not duck/drop in an open area of the structure or in the middle of the room without tables or furniture to protect you because in the absence of these stuffs, you are simply exposing yourself to risk.
Remember, neither the triangle of life theory nor getting under tables is a guarantee that one will be saved. And likewise, none of these is intended to risk a life. One may work better than the other depending on the scenario or situation. Getting under tables can be best in low intensity quakes, since only small and light objects will fall. But in high magnitude quakes where walls and buildings collapse, getting under tables can be a bad idea. Those who stay on the sides of the furniture (tables, desks, chairs, cabinets) will likely be saved as crushed furniture will support collapsed walls and ceilings so that they do not fully kiss the floor, thereby creating a free space for man.
Certainly, it’s all up to one to decide whether to go for the triangle theory or under the table thing. "There are no guarantees". We never can predict how ferocious nature can be.
NOTE: I do not say that my views are definitive but I hope somehow this will serve as your guide. I am a rescuer and my only aim is to be able to help save lives.
Earthquake... Triangle of Life or Get Under the Table?
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