FREEZE MODE

Did you ever ask yourself this question: When they give safety instructions on an airplane, they always tell me to put on my mask first before assisting others. Why? The fact is, if oxygen becomes unavailable because of sudden depressurization of the cabin, every second counts. We put our masks on first because, if we do not, we will pass out in just a few seconds. Then they always tell us that if we are instructed to leave the airplane, we do so - and we do so fast. We do not grab purses, carry-ons, or under-seat items; we just go, and we go fast. Why? Well, every second counts in an emergency, and believe it or not, one of the most common reactions in a disaster is to freeze. Our brains try to make sense of dynamic and potentially horrifying situations. For many people, the first step is to take no step at all, but simply to stand still and let the brain process what is happening. This "Freeze Response," or "Freeze Mode," is well documented. However, studies show that practicing what to do in an emergency can play a major role in reducing the tendency to freeze during one. Yet, despite the Great ShakeOut drills that are held all over the world every year to teach people to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" during an earthquake, a surprising number of people openly admit that they have no clue what to do in an earthquake. Get in a doorway? Run for the exit? Get into a bathtub? Stop, drop, and roll? Is it ignorance or arrogance? Logically, every earthquake drill teaches more people the proper steps to take during an earthquake. Continued emphasis on these drills will save lives. This freezing phenomenon is also one reason why securing building contents is so essential. Taking steps to "Secure Your Space" (Step 1 of the Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety) will help ensure that even if Freeze Mode occurs, life safety can be preserved. Retrofitting buildings, along with securing contents, makes "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" less of an absolute necessity and more of a good practice. The more you retrofit and fasten, the better off you will be.

Need help securing your space?

Earthquake Consulting LLC can help you identify risks, secure contents, and prepare your home or workplace for earthquakes.

Contact: earthquakeconsulting@gmail.com