Q&A for How to Be Safe During a Landslide

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  • Question
    What happens if I get trapped under mud?
    Community Answer
    If you are trapped under mud, the chances of surviving are very low, about 5%. Most people die of mudslides because of suffocation. Attempt swimming motions, if at all possible, aiming above all to keep your head above the mud and try to grab something higher, such as a tree branch or pole. If the mud is fast moving or continuing to topple down on you, the chances of survival are slim but your survival instincts will give you some energy if you're still conscious. Remain as calm as you can.
  • Question
    If an earthquake strikes, then how do you know whether a landslide will occur?
    Community Answer
    Earthquakes can trigger landslides, so it is a good idea to be alert after an earthquake. Look for the warning signs described in the article, and stay tuned in to your local news. If you believe a landslide is imminent, evacuate or seek shelter immediately.
  • Question
    After a landslide has passed, how long should you stay in the car or building before going out?
    Community Answer
    You should remain in a safe place until authorities have announced it is safe to leave. Listen to the radio for emergency updates. When you decide to go out, stay alert for flooding, debris, and damage to roads, utilities, and power lines.
  • Question
    What should I do if I am injured, and there's no help around?
    Community Answer
    First, if you are bleeding, rip off some cloth from your clothing and put pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding, or tie it around the wound and use anything that can support the injured limb. Then get yourself to safety where you can find help.
  • Question
    Shouldn't I try to save others before myself?
    Community Answer
    If you save others before yourself, maybe you would be in the middle of saving people then - boom! A rock hits you and the victim. You can at least get to a place of safety, get a situational awareness report and some safety equipment and advice from authorities, all of which may put you in a better position to help rescue people than staying in situ and risking your life.
  • Question
    Why do I have to curl up like a ball?
    Community Answer
    Curling up makes it easier to protect the most vital parts of your body, like the head and neck.
  • Question
    How can a landslide kill me?
    Community Answer
    When the rocks move down the slope with high velocity, it can cause injuries to you, which can be fatal.
  • Question
    Shall I still pray when there is a landslide?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but make sure that you are also in a safe place and that you evacuate if you have the chance. Follow the steps with this article and then you can pray.
  • Question
    What should I do if I get severe injuries?
    Community Answer
    The best option in that situation is to ask for help from someone else, calling out for their assistance when you have the energy and realize that people are close by. Get them to find an emergency first aid kit to help you with. If possible, keep some water with you and some emergency call numbers.
  • Question
    What do I do if I'm biking or I live right next to a hill and a landslide happens?
    Community Answer
    Try to remove yourself from the path of the landslide immediately. If you are unable to leave your house, move to the second floor, if possible. If you cannot remove yourself from the path of the landslide, curl up into a ball and protect your head.
  • Question
    What devices can be used to help me survive a landslide?
    Community Answer
    A functional phone would be a perfect device because it could provide a flashlight, a phone, a camera, etc., which could be especially helpful if you can use it to contact someone to rescue you. A regular flashlight or radio would be very helpful too.
  • Question
    What if I'm on the second story in my house and the mud got through a window?
    Community Answer
    Evacuate the area of the scene of where it is happening. Go somewhere else that doesn't have the same issue.
  • Question
    What if I live in a tall building?
    Community Answer
    You could go up to the highest level for safety.
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