Before An Earthquake
- Store Water and Food Supply
- Organize a 72-hour portable emergency kit.
- Bolt down or provide strong support for water heaters and other appliances.
- Consider earthquake insurance.
During an Earthquake
- STAY CALM
- If you are indoors, stay inside and find protection in a doorway, or crouch under a desk or table, away from windows or glass dividers; avoid masonry wall (brick) and chimneys (fireplaces).
- Outside: Stand away from buildings, trees, telephone and electric lines.
- On the Road: Drive away from underpasses/overpasses; stop in a safe area; stay in vehicle.
- In an Office Building: Stay next to a pillar or support column or under a heavy table or desk.
After an Earthquake
- Check for injuries. Provide first aid.
- Check for safety - gas, water, sewage breaks; check for downed electric lines; turn off interrupted utilities as necessary; check for building damage and potential safety problems during aftershocks, such as cracks around chimney and foundation; check for fires.
- Clean up dangerous spills.
- Wear Shoes.
- Tune radio to an emergency station and listen for instructions from public safety agencies.
- Use the telephone only for emergencies.
- As soon as possible, notify your family that you are okay.
- Do not use matches or open flames in the home until you are sure there are no gas leaks.
- Do not turn light switches off and on. Sparks created by the switch contacts can ignite gas fumes.
- In public buildings, follow evacuation procedures immediately and return only after the building has been declared safe by the appropriate authorities.
- Report damages or needs to your Neighborhood Coordinator.
Things You Need To Know
- How, where and when to turn off electricity, gas and water.
- First aid.
- Plan for reuniting your family.
- Plan and practice a family drill at least once a year.