Natural Disaster Prevention Day at the Aristotelio School

 

Natural Disaster Prevention Day at the Aristotelio School

Natural Disaster Prevention Day (Ημέρα Προστασίας από Φυσικές Καταστροφές) is an official awareness day in Greece.

It is  held  on October 13, in line with the United Nations International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, established by the UN General Assembly in 1989. The goal is to promote a culture of preparedness and resilience worldwide — and in Greece, schools, municipalities, and civil protection services often organize educational events, safety drills, and awareness campaigns on this day.

On Natural Disaster Prevention Day, the students of Aristotelio School took part in a series of educational and practical activities designed to raise awareness and strengthen preparedness in case of emergencies. The goal of the day was to ensure that everyone in the school community — students, teachers, and staff — knows how to react safely and calmly during natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and fires.

The day began with informative sessions led by teachers, focusing on different types of natural disasters that can occur in Greece. Students learned about the importance of preparedness, risk reduction, and community cooperation during emergencies. Presentations highlighted real-life examples, emphasizing how quick thinking and awareness can save lives.

One of the main activities of the day was a simulated earthquake drill. When the alarm sounded, students and staff immediately followed the safety procedures they had learned:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On 

After the shaking “stopped,” they calmly evacuated the classrooms and gathered in the school’s open assembly area, away from buildings and power lines.

Teachers ensured that everyone was accounted for, and students discussed what went well and what could be improved in a real situation. The drill reinforced the importance of staying calm and following instructions during an emergency.

Students also learned about 112, the European emergency number, which operates 24 hours a day, free of charge, across the EU — including Greece. By calling 112, citizens can reach fire services, ambulance, police, and civil protection authorities, even from a mobile phone without a SIM card.

In addition to disaster awareness, students participated in a basic first aid workshop. They learned how to:

Treat minor injuries such as cuts and bruises,

Assist someone who has fainted,

Use the recovery position for an unconscious person,

and most importantly, remain calm and seek help immediately by notifying teachers or calling 112.

The hands-on practice helped students feel more confident in responding effectively if they ever witness an accident or emergency.

The day ended with a group discussion about the importance of community resilience and how preparedness begins with each individual. Aristotelio School is committed to fostering a culture of safety and awareness, ensuring that students are not only informed but also ready to act responsibly in the face of any natural disaster.