In an emergency situation, every helping hand is a saving hand. "Carefully render aid to those who are injured," Edwards says. "Do not use matches or lighters, in case of leaking natural gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby. Remain calm and alert, and listen for information and instructions from emergency crews or local officials. Damage areas are full of hazardous booby traps for survivors. Electric lines might still be charged and must be avoided, along with any puddles or water touching wires. Tripping hazards exists everywhere with debris. Nails, sharp metal objects and broken glass are common on the ground and embedded in debris piles. Severe infections can occur from being punctured or cut in damage areas, where toilet pipes and other sources of germs have been blasted apart. Stay out of a
