Stay safe during earthquakes with these practical tips for renters and landlords in the Philippines. Learn how KURTINA helps you report and manage maintenance concerns efficiently.
When the Ground Starts to Shake
In the Philippines, earthquakes are part of life. With active fault lines running across the country, everyone (including students in dorms and community landlords managing boarding houses) needs to know what to do when one strikes. Earthquakes often hit without warning, and in those few seconds of shaking, being prepared can make all the difference.
Here’s how both renters and landlords can stay safe, calm, and ready before, during, and after an earthquake.
1. Before an Earthquake: Prepare Your Space
Preparation starts long before the ground moves. Small actions can greatly reduce risk and damage.
For Renters:
- Secure heavy items. Anchor shelves, mirrors, and appliances to the wall to prevent them from toppling.
- Keep an emergency kit. Store essentials like a flashlight, first aid kit, power bank, bottled water, and easy-to-eat snacks in one accessible place.
- Know your exits. Identify safe spots and the fastest route to get outside in case evacuation is needed.
- Talk to your landlord. Ask about your building’s safety features and where to gather after an earthquake.
For Landlords:
- Inspect your property regularly. Check for cracks or loose fixtures that could worsen during shaking.
- Reinforce light structures. Boarding houses made with lighter materials (like wood or GI sheets) should have stable supports and proper bracing.
- Post emergency reminders. Display evacuation routes and safety instructions in visible areas like hallways or common spaces.
- Keep communication open. Let tenants know how they can reach you if they notice potential hazards.
2. During an Earthquake: Stay Calm and Take Cover
Once the shaking starts, seconds matter — panic can lead to injury, so focus on safety first.
If You’re Indoors:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get under a sturdy table or desk and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Stay away from windows and heavy furniture. Broken glass or falling items can cause injuries.
- Don’t rush outside. Wait until the shaking ends before evacuating, as stairways and exits might be unstable.
If You’re Outdoors:
- Move away from buildings and power lines. Find an open area free of anything that could fall.
- Stay alert for hazards. Be cautious of falling debris, broken glass, or cracks on the ground.
3. After the Earthquake: Check, Communicate, and Cooperate
When the shaking stops, it’s time to assess your surroundings and help one another.
For Renters:
- Check for injuries and hazards. If you smell gas, turn off the valve (if it’s safe to do so) and avoid using open flames or switches.
- Report damages right away. Inform your landlord about cracks, leaks, or other issues that need repair.
- Be ready for aftershocks. These smaller quakes can happen minutes or even hours after the main one.
For Landlords:
- Inspect the property. Prioritize safety checks for structural integrity, electrical lines, and water pipes.
- Coordinate repairs quickly. Document damages for record-keeping and insurance if applicable.
- Keep tenants informed. Provide updates about safety, repairs, and temporary arrangements if needed.
4. Using KURTINA to Stay Organized After a Quake
While KURTINA isn’t a communication app, it can be a practical tool for both landlords and tenants in post-earthquake situations.
- Tenants can use the “Message Landlord” feature to inform their landlord about possible damage in their unit, such as cracks, leaks, or broken fixtures.
- Landlords can record, track, and follow up on these reports through the “Maintenance” section of the KURTINA app, helping them prioritize repairs efficiently.
- The “Announcement” feature can be used to share short updates (like safety reminders or repair schedules) with all tenants at once.
This keeps everyone informed and organized, even when things are uncertain.
A Quick Earthquake Safety Checklist
Whether you’re renting or managing a property, here’s a simple checklist to keep in mind:
✅ Emergency kit stocked and easy to grab
✅ Heavy items secured to walls
✅ Clear exits and visible evacuation routes
✅ Gas, water, and electrical systems checked regularly
✅ Communication plan between tenants and landlord in place
✅ KURTINA app updated for maintenance tracking
Building a Safer Community, One Home at a Time
Earthquakes remind us how important it is to stay alert and connected as a community. Renters who report issues early help landlords keep buildings safer, while landlords who act quickly make everyone’s living space more secure.
Preparedness isn’t about fear; it’s about confidence and cooperation.
And with tools like KURTINA, managing your property and responding to maintenance concerns becomes a little easier, no matter what happens.
KURTINA PH 
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