Unfortunately due to a poor maintenance culture, negligence, careless
and a number of other factors, the incidence of sudden explosions in
different parts of the nation have become more rampant in recent times
Remain Calm
Against
your natural response, you should try as much as can to remain calm
when there's a sudden explosion. This mainly because explosions are of
different types and can be caused by different factors, you therefore
need to try to identify the type and cause of the explosion to help you
effectively deal with the problem. Sometimes, it might not even be an
actual explosion you're dealing with, but an explosive sound that might
have been caused by nothing too serious.
Be as Rational as Possible
In
a sudden event, there is a tendency to lose all sense of rationality
and react with fear, rather than think with your brain. Avoid this. You
need to understand that without being able to rationally assess the
situation, you're likely to make costly and even deadly mistakes. If you
can calm down enough to think rationally, rather than screaming and
overreacting, you're more likely to successfully get out of the
situation.
Try To Take Cover
If the explosions happen
outdoors, try to take cover behind any shield or shelter around you.
Ensure the shield is unable to conduct electricity and is reasonably
sturdy. Use the time you're taking cover to try to assess the situation
and see if there is need for concern. Finding a place to take cover can
also help keep you safe in the event of crowd chaos or a stampede.
Attend to Loved Ones
If
you are not alone and you're caught up in the incident with family and
friends, after you've taken cover and assessed the situations, you can
then try to help the loved ones around you. Remember that you need to
'put your oxygen mask on first', therefore you need to first be okay
before you can successfully save anyone.
Turn Off Electrical Appliances and Clear all Possible Exits
If
you're indoors, immediately turn off all electrical appliances around
you. If it's possible, try to turn them off at their central point. Try
to get your hands on a fire extinguisher, if you have one. Then, try to
find and clear an exit for yourself and other loved ones that might be
around or with you. Ensure you have a phone or communication device on
you as you exit.
Get Help
The moment you have been able
to identify the explosive sound with an actual or likely dangerous
explosion, immediately call a local emergency response team and report
the incident to them. If you're not able to reach an emergency response
team, call anyone you know that might be able to help. Also, if you have
access to the internet, immediately post a live or recorded video of
the incident and copy or mention rapid response agencies that might be
able to help.
Try to Leave the Area
If you can, try to
leave the area and get as far away as possible. Please avoid downplaying
the importance of an explosion and sticking around believing that
nothing serious will happen. It's called an explosion for a reason. Even
in the event of a mere explosive sound, you still need to be careful
and get away from the area for a while to be sure it does not escalate
into an explosion.
THINGS TO DO WHEN THERE'S A SUDDEN EXPLOSION
Jul 28, 2017
By Damilola Ojo
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