BOGOTA, Colombia — Residents across Colombia are urged to remain on heightened alert in the 24 hours following a strong earthquake that struck Monday, Aug. 10, as safety experts warn that hazards often persist long after the initial shaking stops.
SACS Group, a risk management and emergency preparedness firm, advises families and organizations to stay alert. Some dangers may not be immediately apparent, the company said, requiring a careful approach in the tremor's aftermath.
Potential risks include structural damage to buildings, falling debris, compromised utility lines and blocked evacuation routes. Aftershocks pose a significant threat and can cause further destruction and injury.
Carolina Lopez Perez, technical manager for Latin America at SACS Group, said the priority is protecting lives. Individuals should use the hours after the earthquake to evaluate their surroundings, prepare for additional tremors and avoid unstable structures.
Earthquakes cannot be predicted with precision, and the public should disregard any social media claims forecasting when another tremor will occur.
For those indoors during an aftershock, the U.S. Geological Survey and SACS Group endorse the "Drop, Cover and Hold On" method: drop to the ground, take shelter under a sturdy table or desk and remain there until the shaking stops.
Residents must not re-enter buildings showing signs of significant damage—prominent cracks, leaning walls, compromised columns, falling facades or other indicators of instability. Even structures that appear intact may not be safe without a professional inspection.
SACS Group also warns against outdated safety advice. The company said the "triangle of life" technique is misguided, and that standing in a doorway is no longer recommended because modern doorways do not offer superior protection.
Families should establish a designated meeting point where everyone can gather after an evacuation. A predetermined location simplifies confirming everyone's safety and identifying anyone who needs help.
Organizations can apply the same principle by setting up clear evacuation areas, with procedures for accounting for all employees, visitors and contractors after an emergency.
The initial 24-hour period is also an opportune time to verify the readiness of an emergency kit. SACS Group recommends equipping these kits with drinking water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, a radio, a blanket and basic first-aid supplies.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises prompt first aid for minor injuries to prevent infection, and recommends listening to battery-operated radios or monitoring cell phone alerts for emergency information and official instructions.
