The seismic disasters always seem to us a distant phenomenon. But that possibility is very real and can strike any community, in any time.

Although many sismólogos have lately devoted to research in the forecast of earthquakes so far unable to develop any widespread, leading to forecast the time and the place where an earthquake occurs.

We know, however, that the earthquakes will continue to disrupt the humanity and which occur more often in regions where they have occurred in the past. And we also know that even the regions with no history may be affected by seismic events very serious removed in time with each other. In continental Portugal the major earthquakes, although uncommon, affecting especially the central and southern regions of the territory.

The seismic hazard, however, is not confined to these regions. Earthquakes important, although still less frequent, have also occurred in the northern part of the country In the Azores have occurred regularly major earthquakes that have affected the islands of central and eastern groups. Most earthquakes above, which are felt by the population are characterized by quake of short duration (a few seconds to a few tens of seconds).

Some buildings may collapse by the seismic action, especially those of older construction. The earthquakes may also cause desprendimentos of land and generate huge waves in the oceans - tsunamis, or tidal waves - which may have catastrophic effects. In all these cases, the behavior of each person is essential to minimize the effects of the earthquake because most of injury resulting from the fall of objects and debris.

The injury is usually caused by: partial collapse of buildings such as chimneys, balconies, roofs or walls; overthrow of lamps, tables, shelves, vessels or other mobile; estilhaços of glass from windows, mirrors or other objects, this danger is greater when the windows are from high floors of tall buildings; fire originating on chimneys or gas pipes destroyed, the danger may be aggravated by lack of water due to the destruction of pipes or obstruction of access by preventing the movement of means of assistance; toppling of power lines; panic resulting from human activities. Hence, during an earthquake is necessary to act quickly and with cold blood.

Indeed, experience has shown that an act calm during an earthquake, much contributes to minimize their effects. Knowing perfectly some fundamental rules that will be provided on this page, a large number of accidents can be avoided.

Use these rules freely and disclose them as necessary to understand As always, civil protection begins in itself.

It is recalled that no community is fully prepared and equipped to meet these exceptional situations. In preparing itself is helping itself to itself and to the community. (Adapted Text)