UNB:

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that has caused widespread devastation in Myanmar, the Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate has issued a warning for potential tremors in Bangladesh.

It has urged public and relevant stakeholders to take precautionary measures to reduce the impact of possible earthquakes, said a press release of Fire Service and Civil Defence .

KEY MEASURES RECOMMENDED INCLUDE:

Construction of Earthquake-Resistant Buildings: Adherence to the Bangladesh National Building Code (2020) for constructing earthquake-resistant structures.

Renovation and Strengthening of Vulnerable Buildings: Taking necessary steps to repair and reinforce old and at-risk buildings.

Strengthening Fire Prevention Systems: Reinforcing fire prevention systems in all multi-storey and commercial buildings.

Ensuring the Safety of Utility Services: Ensuring the integrity of utility lines such as gas, water, and electricity.

Regular Earthquake Drills and Awareness Campaigns: Organizing regular earthquake drills and awareness campaigns at individual and institutional levels to ensure preparedness.

Displaying Emergency Contact Numbers: Ensuring emergency phone numbers, such as those for fire services, ambulances, police, hospitals, and other critical services, are clearly displayed in public and private buildings.

Training Volunteers: Promoting volunteer training to effectively respond during disasters.

Storing Essential Emergency Supplies: Keeping essential emergency items such as flashlights, radios (with spare batteries), whistles, hammers, helmets/cushions, non-perishable food, clean water, necessary medicines, first aid kits, and child care supplies at designated spots in homes.

Cooperating with Monitoring Agencies: Assisting relevant authorities in disaster monitoring and preparedness activities.