Coastal Towns Prep Tourists for Tsunami Threats

Editor’s note: Jenelle Eli traveled last week to coastal Ecuador, where the American Red Cross prepares communities for emergencies and disasters.   Familiar phrases every person hears before going on a trip: Call me when you land. Don’t walk by yourself at night. Please just be careful. Whether I’m traveling for work or hitting the road with friends, my parents never fail to utter these phrases — sometimes twice. And really, who can blame them? Even the most seasoned of travelers can find themselves in sticky situations when visiting unfamiliar towns and environments—especially when it comes to natural disasters. Chile’s 8.2 earthquake and tsunami on Tuesday, which was followed by a 7.8 magnitude aftershock last night, is a reminder that travelers need to be aware of the local threats and surroundings.  Wearing mosquito repellent in malaria-prone areas is a no-brainer, but preparing for the possibility of tsunamis, earthquakes, and floods while on vacation takes a bit more attention to detail. In tourist destinations like coastal Ecuador—where earthquakes and tsunamis threaten the tiny towns—visitors don’t need to stress. Local business owners and the Red Cross prep out-of-towners and residents alike for natural disasters and other emergencies that might occur on its paradise-like beaches. Ecuador’s pristine coastline is dotted with palm-roofed shacks selling fresh seafood. There’s something else unique, too: colorful Red Cross billboa...
Source: Red Cross Chat - Category: Global & Universal Authors: Tags: International Preparedness chile eartquake Ecuador South America tsunami Source Type: news