The Fire Service has issued a warning that a 7.7-magnitude earthquake could also strike Bangladesh and urged all concerned to take necessary precautions.

In a press release issued on Saturday (March 29), the Fire Service stated that the warning follows two powerful earthquakes that hit Myanmar and Thailand on Friday (March 28), measuring 7.7 and 6.4 on the Richter scale, respectively, causing significant damage. There is a considerable risk of a similar earthquake occurring in Bangladesh, particularly in Chattogram, Sylhet, Mymensingh, and Dhaka regions.

To mitigate risks, the Fire Service and Civil Defense Directorate has called for the following precautionary measures:

1. Construct earthquake-resistant buildings in compliance with the Bangladesh National Building Code 2020.

2. Strengthen and renovate old and vulnerable structures.

3. Reinforce fire prevention systems in all high-rise and commercial buildings.

4. Ensure the safety of utility services, including gas, water, and electricity lines.

5. Conduct regular earthquake preparedness drills and awareness campaigns at individual, institutional, and community levels.

6. Display and maintain emergency contact numbers for Fire Service, Ambulance, Police, Hospitals, and other essential services in all buildings.

7. Train volunteers to play an effective role during disasters.

8. Keep emergency supplies such as flashlights, radios (with extra batteries), whistles, hammers, helmets/cushions, dry food, clean water, essential medicines, first aid kits, and baby care items in a designated spot at home for survival in case of entrapment after an earthquake.

9. Cooperate with monitoring and response agencies at all levels.

The Fire Service and Civil Defense Directorate has been actively conducting various awareness and preparedness activities. The department urges everyone to join hands in ensuring safety and minimizing damage in the event of a major earthquake.

For emergency assistance, contact:

Media Cell, Fire Service & Civil Defense Directorate

Mobile: 01722856867

Hotline: 102

Website: http://www.fireservice.gov.bd