Dealing with a Natural Disaster Aftermath
After a major earthquake, you are safe but observe significant damage and potential injuries around you. You need to check on neighbors, assess immediate dangers, and communicate with emergency relief organizations for assistance.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
jolt
A sudden strong shake or shock, often used for earthquakes or surprises. In emergencies, say 'That was a big jolt' to describe a sudden movement.
shaken
Feeling upset or scared after a frightening event. Use it like 'I'm just shaken up' to express emotional shock without physical injury.
debris
Pieces of broken material from damage, like fallen rocks or wood. In disasters, warn others with 'Watch out for debris' to avoid hazards.
unstable
Not steady or safe, likely to move or collapse. Say 'The ground feels unstable' during earthquakes to alert about potential dangers.
consolidate
To gather or combine things together for better organization. In crises, use 'Let's consolidate our supplies' to prepare resources efficiently.
first-aid
Basic medical help for injuries before professional care. Common in emergencies: 'Do you have first-aid supplies?' to check for help kits.
landline
A fixed telephone connected by wires, not mobile. Useful when cell phones fail: 'Try the landline for emergency calls.'
reception
The ability to receive phone or radio signals. In disasters, say 'Poor reception here' to explain communication problems.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Are you alright?
A simple question to check if someone is okay after an event. Useful in emergencies to show concern; 'alright' means safe or uninjured. Use it immediately after a shock.
We need to check on the neighbors immediately.
Expresses urgency in helping others. 'Check on' means to see if they are safe; 'immediately' adds speed. Great for team coordination in crises.
Shout if you see anything serious.
Gives instructions for communication in danger. 'Shout' means to call loudly; imperative form for commands. Use to ensure quick alerts during searches.
My phone has no signal.
Reports a communication problem. Present simple tense for current state; common in disasters when mobiles fail. Follow with alternatives like finding help.
Be careful of falling debris.
A warning about hazards. Imperative 'be careful' advises caution; 'of' shows what to avoid. Essential for safety instructions in unstable areas.
Let's meet back here in 15 minutes.
Suggests a plan with a time limit. 'Let's' proposes action; future time 'in 15 minutes' sets expectation. Useful for regrouping in emergencies.