Informed. Prepared. Together
  • Aardbeving - Séisme
    Earthquake
    Seismic activity in our region is moderate with numerous earthquakes of low, hardly noticeable intensity. Nevertheless, seismic history shows that devastating earthquakes with a force that can reach 6.0 are possible.
    • Before you build a house or move into an area, find out whether you are in a risk zone.
       
    • For new buildings, apply the EUROCODE 8 standard which is applicable to your region.
       
    • Make sure that alterations to existing buildings do not reduce the strength of the building.
       
    • Have the outside of your chimney checked (risk of the collapse).
       
    • Secure heavy furniture and shelving to prevent it falling. Avoid putting heavy objects on the upper shelves.
       
    • Make sure that mirrors, paintings and other objects fixed to the wall are securely fastened to prevent them falling.
       
    • Do not hang picture frames or other heavy objects at the head-end of your bed.

     

    Informeer je - Informez-vousFind out whether you are living in a vulnerable zone.

     

     

    Bereid je voor - Preparez-vousMake sure that you always have a first-aid kit at hand (bandages, plasters, disinfectant, etc.).

     

     

  • If you are indoors

    • If you are close to an exit, evaluate the possibility of leaving the building safely and go away from any other building.
       
    • Hide under a table, desk, bed or any other sturdy piece of furniture.
       
    • Cover your head and torso to protect yourself from objects that could fall on you.
       
    • If there is no sturdy furniture which you can hide under, or if you are in a corridor, squat down along an interior wall.

     

    If you are outdoors

    • Go to an open space, away from buildings;
       
    • If you are in a public place, hide in a place away from the masses.

     

    If you're driving

    • Try to stop in a safe place where you are not blocking the road. Allow free passage for emergency service vehicles.
       
    • Stop the vehicle and stay sitting in your vehicle.
       
    • Listen to the radio to find out what the authorities are recommending.
       
    • Do not leave your car if electric power lines have fallen on it. Wait until the emergency services get there to help you.

     

  • In your home

    • Be prepared for after-shocks.
       
    • Listen to the radio or television for the recommendations by the authorities and follow them.
       
    • Only use the telephone if you need the emergency services. Communicatie with friends and family by text, internet or social media.
       
    • Check whether your home has sustained structural damage or whether there are other hazards. If you think your home is not safe anymore, do not enter and call an expert, e.g. a fireman, civil defence, civil engineer, ...
       
    • If you must leave your home, take your emergency kit and other essential items, for instance important papers or medication.
       
    • When you return home, turn the gas and electricity supply off to prevent a leak (possibility of damaged pipes).
       
    • Have your chimney checked. A damaged chimney can cause carbon monoxide in your home.
       

    Insurance

    • Take photos of the damaged areas: they can be useful for your insurance claim.
       
    • Find out from the authorities whether the Disaster Fund will pay compensation in your situation.
       
    • If you are not a victim of the earthquake, remember to pass on that information and share your experience on www.seismologie.be. This information is useful for the emergency services.

     

    Informeer je - Informez-vousFind out information from the local authorities: there you get useful information about the impact of the emergency.