Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Community Involvement Center (CIC) and EMU Search and Rescue Club (EMU-SAR) organized an “Earthquake Awareness Training” hosted at the Faculty of Tourism. The hands-on training program was attended by students and EMU personnel. The training aimed to spread disaster awareness throughout the university, drawing on the lessons learned from recent earthquakes in our country.
“A Geographical Fact”
Making a speech at the opening of the event, EMU CIC Chairperson Assist. Prof. Dr. Nazenin Ruso Kandemir pointed out that earthquakes are a geographical fact rather than a possibility, emphasizing the importance of individual and social responsibility in preparedness efforts. Assist. Prof. Dr. Kandemir stated that the training delivered by EMU-SAR is not limited to theoretical knowledge, highlighting its significance in equipping individuals to safeguard both themselves and others. Representing EMU-SAR, Melisa Ulupınar later introduced the club’s activities and noted that prospective members could contact them.
As part of the program, EMU-SAR Instructor Muhammed Kağan Gür and his team provided hands-on training on earthquake preparedness, correct behavior during an earthquake, and post-earthquake procedures. Visual and practical demonstrations were also conducted on emergency kits, life triangle methods, and identifying safe zones. Gür stressed that proper action during an earthquake is crucial, highlighting that the “drop–cover–hold on” method enhances survival, and warned against using elevators, stairs, and balconies while urging participants to stay calm.
Also addressing the devastating earthquakes that occurred in Türkiye on 6 February 2023, Gür stated that the country’s fault lines have become more evident since the disaster and that earthquake risk nationwide is significant and should not be underestimated. He stressed the importance of enhancing disaster awareness throughout society.
Following the training session, EMU-SAR teams guided participants to the Faculty of Tourism emergency assembly area, where the earthquake tent and search and rescue equipment were introduced. The program ended with Assist. Prof. Dr. Nazenin Ruso Kandemir, Chairperson of EMU CIC, presenting certificates of appreciation to EMU-SAR Instructor Muhammed Kağan Gür and his team.
Assist. Prof. Dr. İlkay Yorgancı, Acting Dean of Faculty of Tourism, noted that informative and practical training is essential in ensuring students’ preparedness for possible disasters and stated that the faculty will maintain its support for similar awareness activities.
