I am writing on behalf of the Seismic Monitoring and Research Group, Department of Geosciences, University of Malta.

We refer to the article by Noel Grima entitled “Safe as Houses” which appeared on the Independent on Sunday 29 January 2023.

We acknowledge that Mr Grima is entitled to his opinion, however when it comes to instructing the public on how to protect themselves during a strong earthquake, we confirm that the advice of Drop, Cover and Hold On, which the writer calls “stupid and ridiculous” is the internationally accepted recommendation on how best to minimise injury during strong shaking, as published, for example, by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), one of the world’s foremost science agencies and advisors

https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-should-i-do-during-earthquake

or by the Italian Civil Protection agency

https://www.iononrischio.it/static/e21685ce591c439da17b3b119351db78/terremoto-scheda-eng.pdf

and by numerous other reputable agencies world wide

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MKMiFWK6Xk

https://www.shakeout.org/dropcoverholdon/

We find Mr Grima’s comments to be irresponsible, especially at this sensitive time.

 

Pauline Galea

Seismic Monitoring and Research Group, Department of Geosciences

University of Malta