Preparedness for Landslides and soil subsidence

PREPAREDNESS FOR LANDSLIDES AND SOIL SUBSIDENCE

In areas of previous landslides.
On top or at the base of steep slopes or hillsides.
At the base or on top of embankments and excavations.
Strong shaking of the ground caused by earthquakes can cause landslides or intensify their impact.

Landslides usually occur in areas where they have happened in the past. Ask for information on landslides in your area, and possibly seek a detailed expert opinion on the area where your property is located.
If your home is within an area with an increased risk for the occurrence of landslide, minimize the risk by planting the slopes within your property and constructing retaining walls.

Contact the local authorities, the Fire Service, the Police or the Technical Works Directorate. Local authorities are best placed to assess a potential risk.
Inform your neighbors. They may not be aware of the possible risks.
If you are in dangerous areas for landslides and mudslides, inquire about the possible escape routes. Remember however that driving during heavy rain is very dangerous.
Stay informed from the media and the Internet about warnings related to phenomena of intense or prolonged rainfall. After periods of prolonged rainfall the risk of landslides is increased.

Move as quickly as possible away from the event area of the landslide.
If you stay at home, move to higher floors.
If you cannot leave, sit on the floor in a fetal position and protect your head.
Be prepared to move quickly. Give priority to your own safety and not to your possessions.
Stay alert and vigilant while driving. The curbs along the roads are particularly susceptible to landslides and rockfalls. Pay attention to the road for possible signs of soil subsidence, collapse, rockfalls etc.

Stay away from the area of the landslide. There may be a risk of new landslide event.
Monitor local radio or television stations for the latest information on dealing with emergencies arising from the onset of the landslide.
Check for injured and trapped people around the event area of the landslide, without entering the actual area of the landslide. Direct rescue teams to the positions of the trapped.
Check for damage to utility networks, roads, railways and report damage to the competent authorities.
Check for damage to the critical points for the statics of your home.