Earthquake

First of all, for workplaces or homes that you believe may be damaged, you can apply for damage assessment through the contact details below:

1- Ministry of Environment and Urbanization - Call Center: Alo 181
2- Izmir Metropolitan Municipality - Citizen Communication Center: 444 40 35
3- Izmir Provincial Directorate of Environment and Urbanization: +90 232 341 6800
4- You can also request an assessment from private institutions authorized under Law No. 6306 by selecting Izmir on the link:
https://altyapi.csb.gov.tr/riskli-yapi-tespiti-ile-ilgili-kuruluslar

Those with DASK Earthquake Insurance can call 125 to open a case file and request damage assessment for compensation purposes.

To check whether damage assessment has been performed on your building or home, and to view the results, you can visit:
https://www.turkiye.gov.tr/cevre-ve-sehircilik-izmir-depremi-hasar-tespit-sorgulama
You can search with your Turkish ID number or address details.

THE EARTHQUAKE REALITY IN OUR COUNTRY

Turkey is a country where 98% of its land lies on active earthquake zones. İzmir and neighboring provinces are located in a first-degree (high-risk) earthquake zone.

Taking precautions before, during, and after an earthquake can increase our chances of survival.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

• Determine safe zones in advance next to sturdy furniture that can create a “triangle of life.” The fetal position is the safest posture. Practice this position beforehand.

• Secure all items and equipment that could fall and cause injury.
• Fit mechanical locks to cabinet doors containing heavy items.
• Store toxic, flammable, and chemical substances safely with phosphorescent labels for visibility in the dark.
• Install automatic shut-off systems for gas leaks and electrical fuses.
• Mark and keep emergency exits free and illuminated; exit doors should open outward.
• Avoid placing beds under windows or heavy furniture. Keep water, non-perishable food, a whistle, power bank, flashlight in drawers near your bed.
• Establish alternative meeting points and an out-of-area emergency contact.
• Keep waterproof copies of important documents (ID, deeds, insurance, medical records, diplomas, passports, bank books) at a different location than the originals.
• Place “Do Not Use During Earthquake” signs near elevators.
• Have fire extinguishers suitable to your workplace/home size:
  • Easily accessible
  • Known location by everyone
  • Maintained annually
  • Refilled after each use
  • Properly wall-mounted

WHAT TO DO DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

• Stay calm.
• Apply the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” rule:
  • Drop to your knees near sturdy furniture
  • Protect your head and neck with your arms or any available sturdy item
  • Hold on until shaking stops
• Do not run outside during shaking; the risk of falling or being caught in debris is high.
• Do not use stairs or elevators.
• After shaking stops, leave the building through emergency exits only.
• If you’re outdoors, move to an open area and stay away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
• If you're in a vehicle, stop in an open area and stay inside, away from bridges, underpasses, and power poles.

WHAT TO DO AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

• Stay calm. Ensure your own safety first. Help others if it's safe to do so.
• Don’t move the injured unless necessary. Get help.
• Avoid using phones except for emergencies; use SMS or messaging apps to avoid network congestion.

OUTDOORS:

• If trained in first aid or search-and-rescue, help those around you.
• Otherwise, assist your immediate surroundings and go to your assembly point to volunteer.

INDOORS:

• Clean up hazardous spills.
• Watch out for broken glass.
• Administer first aid if needed.
• Return displaced phone handsets to their cradles.
• Stay informed via radio or television.

DURING AFTERSHOCKS

• Stay calm and repeat the same protective actions as during the main earthquake.
• Like other natural disasters, earthquakes are a reality of life in our country. With the right precautions, we can reduce or even prevent loss of life and property.

We extend our best wishes for a safe recovery and remind you:
PRECAUTION SAVES LIVES