Take your precautions for this Tuesday, October 17! In this note we will keep you informed about all the seismic movements that have occurred in Colombiaaccording to the report sent and published by the Colombian Geological Service (SGC). Regions such as Cundinamarca, Cali, Bogotá or Medellín are some of the areas most affected by earthquakes, so it is always good to be aware of how to act in the event of a catastrophe. Take a look at the epicenter (place), magnitude and time of the last earthquake in the country in the following paragraphs.
He Geological Survey is a Colombian government entity that is responsible for carrying out geoscientific research in the country. Its objective is to study the subsoil, understand the geological processes that occur in the region and provide reliable information and data to support decision making in areas such as natural resource management.
Along these lines, the SGC plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of Colombia, since its research and data contribute to informed decision-making on issues such as the exploitation of natural resources, urban planning and the reduction of risks associated with geological events, such as earthquakes and landslides.
Minute by minute of the Geological Service
Tremor in Colombia: what to do before an earthquake?
Identify safe places
- In your home, workplace, and anywhere you frequent, identify safe places, such as under a sturdy table or next to a structural wall. Make sure everyone in your family knows about these places.
Secures heavy objects
- Secure tall furniture and heavy objects to the wall to prevent them from tipping over during an earthquake.
Prepare an emergency kit
- Have an emergency kit with basic supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, first aid kit, warm clothing and hygiene items.
Develop an emergency plan
- Create a plan with your family that includes how to communicate in case of separation, a meeting point, and emergency contacts.
Educate your family
- Make sure everyone in your family knows how to act during an earthquake. Teach them the protocol “Stay where you are, drop, cover and hold on.”
Tremor in Colombia: what to do during an earthquake?
Stay where you are
- Don’t try to move during an earthquake. Find a safe place indoors, away from windows, mirrors, glass, heavy objects and unsafe structures.
Get down
- If you can’t get to a safe place, crouch to avoid falling.
Get covered
- Cover your head and neck with your arms. If you are under a table or desk, maintain that protection.
hold on
- Hold on to where you are until the shaking stops.
Tremor in Colombia: what to do after an earthquake?
Evaluate security
- Once the shaking is over, check to see if you are injured and assess the safety of your surroundings.
Listen to the authorities
- Pay attention to updates and recommendations from local authorities.
Don’t use elevators
- Avoid using elevators after an earthquake, as they could become stuck or cause structural damage.
Check damage
- Check your home or workplace for structural damage before entering.
Communicate your status
- Inform loved ones about your status and location if it is safe to do so.
Use your emergency kit
- If necessary, use the supplies in your emergency kit while normality is restored.
Tremor in Colombia: emergency numbers
In Colombia, in the event of a large magnitude tremor, earthquake or other emergency, you can contact the following emergency lines:
- National Police: 123
- Firefighters: 119
- Colombian Red Cross: 132
- Civil defense: 144
- National Emergency Line: 01-8000-910-112
- Emergency Care and Coordination System (SACU): 125
It is important to be prepared and know how to contact these emergency lines if you need assistance during an earthquake or other emergency situation. It is also advisable to have an emergency plan in your home and be aware of seismic safety measures.