Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences Deputy Dean, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist. Dr. Instructor Member Nuri Bingöl gave information and made recommendations about what should be done as a society in cases such as terrorist acts and natural disasters.
Stating that events such as terrorist acts create a state of panic and are treated as an emergency, Dr. Instructor Member Nuri Bingöl continued his words as follows:
“In situations like these, everyone will inevitably act out of the ordinary. However, if our habits are developed to take action in such emergencies with continuous training and exercises, we can reach a level that can cope with these emergencies more calmly. Therefore, the frequency of the exercises, which should be done at least once a year, should be increased, and they should be done 2 or even 3 times a year. It should also be supported by continuous training. Emergency teams are established within the scope of the legislation. These emergency support teams also need to be specially trained and also equipped (fire protective clothing and breathing apparatus). The quick actions of these teams will both reduce the panic situation and maybe minimize the casualties. It should not be forgotten that the time to pass until the firefighters and similar professional teams arrive is vital.”
Stating that in similar situations, it is necessary to start evacuation quickly but calmly by using the habits obtained in previous exercises and to ensure that the place is left. Instructor Member Nuri Bingöl said, “The second step should be directed towards safe assembly areas. In the meantime, those who are in charge must be specially trained beforehand. The directions of the officials must be followed and what is said must be done to the letter. With the support of the fire brigade and AFAD, evacuation and, if necessary, assistance should be provided in some circumstances. It is essential to stay away from buildings against the risk of collapse and/or explosion and to act calmly in accordance with the instructions in safe assembly areas. The most important event after the evacuation is to be able to understand whether there is any left inside by counting. For this, planning should be done in groups of 20 people with pre-made drills. It is necessary for these groups to know each other, to have a group leader, to find the missing person immediately, and to inform the crime scene supervisor or other officials immediately in case of a deficiency.
Stating that there will be people trying to reach their relatives in extraordinary situations, Dr. Instructor Member Nuri Bingöl said, “The assembly areas should not be allowed to be abandoned without a counting in any way. It is very important to determine whether the authorities are inside by counting. The location and assembly areas of the parked vehicles should be determined in advance by examining the building environment and location. A safe distance should be reached against the risk of building collapse. Parking should not be allowed in assembly centers. Exit points should be kept open all the time so that there is no confluence at the exits.
Emphasizing that in order not to complicate the intervention of the authorities and officials in terms of intervention to the incident, it is necessary to wait regularly in the assembly areas and to avoid behaviors that will create additional risks. Instructor Member Nuri Bingöl said, “It may be necessary to fulfill the necessary duties when requested. The entrances and exits of emergency vehicles are also important. These should not be blocked either. In case of suspicion that there may be someone inside, the location and location should be notified to the officials, if possible. When emergency support teams and professional teams such as firefighters arrive, it is imperative to follow their instructions.”
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