Why Earthquake Preparedness Matters in Iran

Iran sits at the intersection of several major tectonic plates, making it one of the most seismically active countries on Earth. Significant earthquakes have affected cities including Bam, Tabriz, Rudbar, and Kermanshah in recent decades, resulting in major loss of life and widespread destruction. Preparedness — both at the individual and community level — is not optional; it is essential.

Key Organizations That Respond to Earthquakes in Iran

1. National Disaster Management Organization (NDMO)

The سازمان مدیریت بحران کشور (National Disaster Management Organization) is the government body responsible for coordinating all phases of disaster management in Iran — mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. During a major earthquake, this organization coordinates the activities of all other response agencies.

2. Red Crescent Society of Iran (RCSI)

The Red Crescent is typically the first humanitarian organization to mobilize after a major seismic event. Their teams provide:

  • Search and rescue (including Urban Search and Rescue — USAR teams)
  • Field hospitals and medical aid
  • Temporary shelter (tents, prefab units)
  • Food, water, and hygiene supplies

3. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) — Orezhanss 115

Iran's EMS network, reachable at 115, deploys ambulances and emergency medical teams. In a large-scale earthquake, regional EMS units establish field triage points and work alongside Red Crescent medical teams.

4. Fire Departments (Atash Neshani)

Fire brigades — reachable at 125 — play a crucial role beyond firefighting in post-earthquake response. They use heavy equipment for debris removal and victim extraction from collapsed structures.

5. Iranian Army and IRGC Relief Units

In major disasters, military and IRGC (Revolutionary Guard) engineering and logistics units are deployed to support civilian rescue efforts — particularly in remote or mountainous regions where civilian access is limited.

Before an Earthquake: How to Prepare

  1. Assemble an emergency kit: Water (at least 3 liters per person per day for 72 hours), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, whistle, copies of documents, and cash.
  2. Know your building's risk: Older buildings, especially unreinforced masonry, carry higher collapse risk. Be aware of exit routes.
  3. Secure heavy furniture: Anchor bookshelves, water heaters, and large appliances to walls.
  4. Identify safe spots in each room: Under sturdy tables, away from windows and exterior walls.
  5. Agree on a family meeting point: Designate a location outside your building where family members will gather if separated.

During an Earthquake: Drop, Cover, Hold On

  • Drop to your hands and knees.
  • Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or against an interior wall.
  • Hold On until shaking stops. Do not run outside during shaking.
  • If outside, move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
  • If in a vehicle, pull over safely and stay inside.

After an Earthquake: Immediate Actions

  1. Check yourself and others for injuries before moving.
  2. Expect aftershocks — stay away from damaged structures.
  3. Check for gas leaks — if you smell gas, open windows, leave the building, and call 194.
  4. Do not use elevators in buildings that experienced the quake.
  5. Listen to official communications via radio or emergency broadcast for instructions.
  6. Call 115 for medical emergencies or 112 for general emergency coordination.

How to Help Others After a Major Earthquake

  • Donate blood through the nearest Red Crescent blood bank.
  • Contribute supplies through official Red Crescent or NDMO collection points — avoid informal channels.
  • If trained in first aid, register as a volunteer through the RCSI provincial office.
  • Avoid converging on the affected area if you are not part of a response team, as it can hamper rescue operations.

Iran's relief organizations work hard under difficult conditions. Individual preparedness and community awareness are the best tools we have to reduce the impact of the next inevitable seismic event.