Several earthquakes including one measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale, have been felt in different parts of Bangladesh including the capital Dhaka over the last two days.

This has spread panic among people in Dhaka city and surrounding districts.

Fire Service and Civil Defence Department has urged people in the country to stay calm and follow eight essential safety measures during an earthquake.

What to do during an earthquake:

• Do not panic, stay calm and steady. If you are on the ground floor, quickly move outside to an open space.

If you are in a multi-storey building, follow the Drop-Cover-Hold method: Drop down, cover under a sturdy table or desk and hold on firmly or take shelter beside a column or under a beam. If possible, protect your head with a pillow, cushion or similar object.

• Do not use lifts during an earthquake. Once the shaking stops, immediately switch off electrical and gas connections.

• Stay away from balconies, windows, bookshelves, almirahs, wooden furniture or any hanging heavy objects. Keep a torch, helmet, essential medicines and a whistle within reach for emergency use.

• If you are outdoors, stay in an open area away from trees, tall buildings and electric poles.

• If you are inside a vehicle, stop it away from overbridges, flyovers, trees and electric poles. Remain inside the vehicle until the shaking subsides.

• After a major tremor, aftershocks may follow. Stay away from damaged buildings, bridges and infrastructure, as further shaking may cause additional collapses and casualties.

• Collective awareness and preparedness can reduce the scale of damage.

For emergency assistance, contact the Fire Service and Civil Defence hotline: 102.