Greek Tourism Ministry: Guidelines for Tourists in Case of an Earthquake

Athens, Greece

The Tourism Ministry on Friday released advice for tourists in Greece on how to act in the case of an earthquake in the country.

The ministry’s announcement followed an earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale that occurred nearby Athens shortly after 2pm on Friday.

According to the ministry, there have been no confirmed reports of any serious injuries or significant damages to buildings.

“An earthquake of this magnitude is common in Greece and all buildings are built with the ability to withstand these kinds of shocks,” the ministry’s announcements said.

The tourism ministry advises tourists to not panic should another earthquake occur. If there is a need for assistance, the emergency services 100 or 199 are available for calling at all times via mobile phone.

Following are instructions on the steps one should follow in case of an earthquake.

If you are at the interior of a building

– Remain calm
– Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture (table, desk etc), stand on your knees and hold on to the leg of the table or the desk
– If a sturdy piece of furniture does not exist, stand on your knees in the middle the room, staying as low as possible and trying to cover your head with your hands. Keep away from large glass surfaces such as windows, or furniture and objects that might hurt you.
– Do not try to leave the building.
– Do not get out on a balcony, if one exists

If you are in a tall building

– Keep away from glass windows and outer walls

If you are in a shopping mall or a big commercial store

– Remain calm
– Stay exactly where you are until the tremble comes to a stop
– Don’t get swept away by the running crowd which is moving unorderly towards the exits because there is a high risk of being stepped over.

If you are at an open space

– Get away from places situated exactly underneath buildings or from places where there are telephone or electricity cables.
– If you are carrying a handbag, put it over your head in order to protect yourself.

If you are in a car

– Go to an open space and stop the car somewhere where it does not impede the circulation of other vehicles
– Keep away from tunnels or bridges