EARTHQUAKE

How do I stay safe in an earthquake?

An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth's surface. Earthquakes can cause buildings and bridges to collapse, down telephone and power lines, and result in fires, explosions and landslides.

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How do I prepare for earthquakes?

1. Prepare an emergency kit (pdf) of food, water and supplies including a flashlight, portable battery operated radio, batteries, medicines, first aid kit, money and clothing.
2. Look for items in your home that could become a hazard in an earthquake:
   • Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas and inflexible utility connections. Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances
   • Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects.
   • Store bottled food, glasses, china and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that can fasten shut.
   • Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
3. Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. Check with your local utilities for instructions.
4. Hold earthquake drills with your family.
   • Locate safe spots in each room - under a sturdy table or against an inside wall.
   • Locate danger zones in each room - near windows where glass can shatter or near bookcases or furniture that can fall over.
5. Develop a plan for reuniting your family after an earthquake. Establish an out-of-state telephone contact for family members to call to let others know that they're okay.

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What do I do during an earthquake?

• In an earthquake, keep calm and stay where you are. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when people are hit by falling objects when entering or exiting buildings.
• If you are indoors, take cover under a sturdy desk, table or bench, or against an inside wall, and hold on. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors or walls and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
• If you are outdoors, stay there. Move away from building, street lights and utility wires.
• If you are in a crowded public place, do not rush to a doorway - other people will have the same idea. Simply take cover and move away from objects that may fall.
• In a high-rise building, get under a sturdy desk, away from windows and outside walls. Stay in the building on the same floor, an evacuation may not be necessary. Do not use elevators.
• In a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as safety permits, and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses or utility wires.

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What do I do after an earthquake?

• Be prepared for aftershocks. These secondary shock-waves are usually less violent than the main quake but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures.
• If the electricity goes out, use flashlights or battery powered lanterns. Do not use candles, matches or open flames indoors after the earthquake because of possible gas leaks.
• Check your home for structural damage.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline and other flammable liquids inside buildings.

(Information provided by FEMA)