The Philippines being located along the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire — an area in the Pacific where earthquakes occur most frequently — we experience a lot of seismic and volcanic tremors. A number of which created massive devastation like the 1990 Luzon Earthquake.
For this reason, the government implemented an act which strengthens disaster risk reduction and management system. The act directs all institutions to exercise proper disaster drills and emergency responses.
It is our responsibility at the Children’s Ark Preparatory School to carry out our own proper training for disaster response. Last July, the school community performed an earthquake emergency drill which aimed in teaching staff and students how to respond appropriately to earthquakes.
The drill reiterates the “duck, cover and hold” practice which is dropping down to the floor, taking cover under a table and holding on to its posts.
The exercise includes teaching our students the proper attitude in times of disaster. Little helpful reminders such as “Don’t Run” and “No Pushing” or “Refrain from Returning” to classrooms/buildings and proceeding to evacuation areas.
TCAPS also encourages our young students to express their feelings such as fear, anxiety or anger. We listen to them carefully and offer reassurance. Restoring their psychological normalcy is part of the earthquake drill.
The Childrens Ark Preparatory School ground serves as an evacuation area sufficient and very much easily accessible to everyone during an earthquake. Also, the DAHHA Clubhouse can serve as temporary shelter when needed.
The earthquake/disaster drill is an important part of the school’s preparedness plan. We see to it that we provide maximum preparedness for our students and ensure their safety in times of danger.
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