Final answer:
In preparation for an earthquake, establish safety plans and secure environments; during an earthquake, 'drop, cover, and hold on', and post-earthquake, assess and respond to damages while staying prepared for aftershocks. Understanding earthquake mechanisms and preparing the infrastructure plays a pivotal role in minimizing damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before an earthquake, it is important to create an emergency plan, secure heavy furniture, and build an emergency supply kit. Governments and individuals can invest in earthquake predictions and reinforce infrastructure to minimize the impacts of large earthquakes. During earthquake education sessions, individuals learn to drop, cover, and hold on during the shaking.
During an earthquake, one should follow the established plan: stay indoors if inside, or move to an open area if outside, avoiding buildings, windows, and falling hazards. Protecting oneself from falling debris is crucial, and if driving, one should stop the vehicle away from structures or overpasses.
After an earthquake, check for injuries and damage once it is safe to do so. Stay away from damaged areas, and be prepared for aftershocks. Communities may need to engage in recovery efforts and work on rebuilding or repairing damaged properties and infrastructure.
The relationship between plate tectonics and earthquakes is that the movement of the Earth's plates causes stress to build up at fault lines, which is eventually released as earthquake energy. Estimating the magnitude of earthquakes involves analyzing seismic waves and using various scales, while the intensity is measured by the effects on people and structures.