Safety Guide 101: How to Be Prepared for a Landslide

Landslides are powerful and destructive natural phenomena that can strike with little warning. Being aware of the signs and knowing how to be prepared for a landslide can make all the difference in keeping you and your loved ones safe. In this article, we'll guide you through the essential steps to recognize the warning signs, identify landslide-prone areas, and take the necessary precautions before, during, and after a landslide.

What Are the Warning Signs of a Landslide?

Before knowing how to prepare for a landslide, let us first know the signs. Here are some common warning signs that can indicate a landslide risk or that a landslide may be imminent:

1. Springs, seeps, or saturated ground appear in areas that have not typically been wet before.
2. New cracks or unusual bulges develop in the ground, street pavements, or sidewalks.
3. Soil begins to move away from the foundations of buildings and structures.
4. Ancillary structures such as decks and patios start tilting and moving relative to the main house.
5. Concrete floors and foundations show signs of tilting or cracking.
6. Broken water lines and other underground utilities are discovered.
7. Telephone poles, trees, retaining walls, or fences begin to lean.
8. Fence lines appear offset or misaligned.
9. Road beds start to sink or drop.
10. Creek water levels rapidly increase, possibly accompanied by increased turbidity (soil content).
11. Creek water levels suddenly decrease, even though rain is still falling or has just recently stopped.
12. Doors and windows start to stick, and visible open spaces indicate that jambs and frames are not aligned.
13. As the landslide approaches, a faint rumbling sound grows louder and becomes more noticeable.
14. Unusual sounds, like the cracking of trees or the knocking together of boulders, could be a sign of moving debris.

 Areas That Are Generally Prone to Landslide Hazards 

Preparing for a landslide requires knowledge about areas that are generally prone to landslide hazards. Here they are:

• Areas located on existing old landslides are prone to future landslides.
• Regions situated on or at the base of slopes are at higher risk of landslides.
• Areas located in or at the base of minor drainage hollows are susceptible to landslides.
• Locations at the base or top of an old fill slope are prone to landslide hazards.
• Regions at the base or top of a steep cut slope are at increased risk of landslides.
• Areas with developed hillsides that use leach field septic systems are susceptible to landslides.

 How to Prepare for a Landslide?

Let's now go to our main highlight for this discussion. How can you prepare for a landslide? To guide you through, here are some things you should keep in mind:

1. Avoid constructing near steep slopes, mountain edges, drainage ways, or erosion valleys.
2. Obtain a ground assessment of your property to identify potential landslide risks.
3. Contact local officials, state geological surveys, departments of natural resources, and university geology departments for information on landslides in your area and specific vulnerable locations.
4. Request a professional referral for a comprehensive site analysis of your property and any necessary corrective measures.
5. Observe the patterns of storm-water drainage near your home, noting places where runoff water converges and increases flow in channels, as these areas should be avoided during a storm.
6. Learn about the emergency response and secured evacuation plans for your area and create an emergency plan for your family or business.
7. Minimize home hazards by installing flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks, planting ground covers on slopes, building retaining walls, and constructing channels or deflection walls to direct debris flow around buildings in mudflow areas.

To better prepare for potential landslides and other emergencies that could disrupt power supply, it's wise to invest in a backup power source. A solar generator is an excellent option, as it provides clean energy and can be recharged using sunlight. Here are a few top picks to consider:

1. Anker SOLIX F2000 Solar Generator + 200W Solar Panel

If you're looking for a reliable and long-lasting solar generator system for your emergency needs, the Anker SOLIX F2000 Solar Generator + 200W Solar Panel is a top choice. With Anker's Proprietary InfiniPower™ Technology, you can enjoy the longest-lasting 10-year lifespan. The adjustable kickstand of the Anker Solar Panel ensures optimal solar power, while the IP67 waterproof protection withstands the harshest weather conditions. Better still, you can power up to 12 devices at once with 2400W across 12 ports and monitor key information via the Smart App Energy Control.

2. Anker SOLIX C1000 Solar Generator + 200W Solar Panel

The Anker SOLIX C1000 Solar Generator + 200W Solar Panel is ideal for landslide preparedness, offering rapid charging with 80% capacity in 43 minutes and full in under an hour. It powers 99% of appliances with 2400W across 11 ports, and recharges via solar in just 1.8 hours. Its long-lasting LFP batteries and 3,000 cycles provide peace of mind, making it an ideal choice for emergencies and outdoor use.

What Should You Do During a Landslide?

Now that you know how do you prepare for a landslide, it's time to know what to do during such a catastrophic event:

1. Be vigilant and stay awake, as many debris-flow deaths occur when people are asleep.
2. Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or a battery-powered radio or television for warnings of heavy rainfall.
3. Consider leaving if you are in areas prone to landslides and debris flows, if it is safe to do so.
4. Move to the second floor if possible, while avoiding the path of a landslide or debris flow.
5. Listen for unusual sounds indicating moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together.
6. Be vigilant for sudden changes in water flow or clarity when near a stream or channel.
7. Be especially alert when driving, watching for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other signs of possible debris flows.
8. Be aware that strong shaking from earthquakes can induce or intensify the effects of landslides.
9. Contact local officials if you suspect imminent landslide danger, as they are the best persons to assess the potential threat.
10. Inform affected neighbors of potential hazards and assist those who may need help to evacuate.
11. Evacuate immediately if you are in the path of a landslide or debris flow.
12. In situations where escape is not possible, curl into a tight ball and carefully protect your head.

What to Do After a Landslide?

After a devastating landslide, it's important to take some immediate actions in response to the aftermath, such as:

1. Stay away from the slide area because there may be a risk of more slides.
2. Make sure to tune in to local radio or television stations for the most up-to-date emergency information.
3. Watch out for flooding, which may occur after a landslide or debris flow due to the same event trigger.
4. Check for injured or trapped individuals near the slide without entering the immediate slide area and direct rescuers to their locations.
5. Assist neighbors who may require special assistance, such as infants, elderly people, and individuals with disabilities.
6. Report any broken utility lines and/or damaged roadways and notify authorities about damaged railways to prevent hazards and injuries.
7. Inspect the building foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for any damage to evaluate the safety of the area.
8. Seek advice from a geotechnical expert to assess landslide risks and develop mitigation measures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while landslides can be frightening and unpredictable, taking proactive steps on how to be prepared for a landslide can greatly reduce the risks of these natural disasters. By staying informed, having an emergency plan in place, and acting quickly and decisively during and after a landslide event, you can protect yourself and your community from the devastating effects of these powerful geological phenomena.

 FAQ

Where is the safest place to be during a landslide?

The safest place to be during a landslide is away from the affected area, preferably on high, stable ground. If you are indoors, stay inside and move to the uppermost floor of the building, away from windows and exterior walls. If you are outdoors and cannot escape the path of the landslide, curl into a tight ball and protect your head and neck with your hands.

What should be included in a landslide emergency kit?

A landslide emergency kit should include essential items such as a first-aid kit, clean bottled water, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, flashlights with extra batteries, warm clothing, sturdy shoes, a whistle to signal for help, and a list of emergency contacts. Moreover, include any necessary medications, important documents (in a waterproof container), and a map of the area with pre-planned evacuation routes. 

What not to do during a landslide?

During a landslide, it is important not to panic or attempt to outrun the debris flow. Do not try to cross the path of the landslide or enter the affected area to retrieve belongings. Avoid rivers or streams near the landslide, as they may be subject to flash floods or debris flows. Do not rely on natural warning signs, such as rumbling sounds or small sliding debris, as landslides can occur suddenly without these indicators. Lastly, do not return to the affected area until authorities have declared it safe to do so.