Press Release
Press release from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Gangtok
Information & Public Relations Department
The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Gangtok District conducted a comprehensive earthquake drill under the guidance of the District Collector at Manjushree Public School located in Lower Sichey.
The primary goal of the drill was to familiarize students with earthquake safety protocols, specifically the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" technique and to ensure that students and staff are prepared for a real-life emergency scenario.
Event Summary:
1. Pre-Drill Preparation:
Evacuation Route Identification: The day commenced with an orientation session where students and staff identified the designated evacuation routes within the school premises.
School Layout Review: A detailed review of the school’s layout was conducted to ensure that all participants were aware of the safe zones and assembly points.
2. Presentation and Training:
Presentation by Ms. Bijayata Kharel: Ms. Bijayata Kharel, Training Officer of DDMA, conducted an informative presentation on various types of disasters with a specific focus on earthquakes. The session was interactive, engaging students and addressing their questions to enhance their understanding of disaster preparedness.
3. Drill Execution:
Siren Activation: The mock earthquake drill began with the activation of a siren that simulated the sound of an earthquake. This auditory signal prompted students to initiate the drill.
Drop, Cover, and Hold: Upon hearing the siren, students were instructed to get underneath their desks, follow the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" procedure, and remain in this position until the siren ceased.
Assembly: Once the siren stopped, students were directed to assemble in lines as per their daily assembly routine. They proceeded to the designated hall, which served as the assembly point for the drill.
4. Post-Drill Procedures:
Head Count: After all students gathered at the assembly point, a head count was conducted to ensure that all students were accounted for and present. This step was crucial to verify the effectiveness of the evacuation process.
The primary goal of the drill was to familiarize students with earthquake safety protocols, specifically the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" technique and to ensure that students and staff are prepared for a real-life emergency scenario.
Event Summary:
1. Pre-Drill Preparation:
Evacuation Route Identification: The day commenced with an orientation session where students and staff identified the designated evacuation routes within the school premises.
School Layout Review: A detailed review of the school’s layout was conducted to ensure that all participants were aware of the safe zones and assembly points.
2. Presentation and Training:
Presentation by Ms. Bijayata Kharel: Ms. Bijayata Kharel, Training Officer of DDMA, conducted an informative presentation on various types of disasters with a specific focus on earthquakes. The session was interactive, engaging students and addressing their questions to enhance their understanding of disaster preparedness.
3. Drill Execution:
Siren Activation: The mock earthquake drill began with the activation of a siren that simulated the sound of an earthquake. This auditory signal prompted students to initiate the drill.
Drop, Cover, and Hold: Upon hearing the siren, students were instructed to get underneath their desks, follow the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" procedure, and remain in this position until the siren ceased.
Assembly: Once the siren stopped, students were directed to assemble in lines as per their daily assembly routine. They proceeded to the designated hall, which served as the assembly point for the drill.
4. Post-Drill Procedures:
Head Count: After all students gathered at the assembly point, a head count was conducted to ensure that all students were accounted for and present. This step was crucial to verify the effectiveness of the evacuation process.