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