Earthquake!!

Safety precautions during and after Earthquake

During an Earthquake

Earthquakes can last just a few seconds or as long as several minutes, and knowing how to react during the quake can help prevent injuries:

Immediately seek a safe location such as in a doorway (if you live in an old, adobe house that is not reinforced), beneath a table or desk or along an interior wall away from windows or hazardous objects.
Cover the back of your head and your eyes to minimize injury from flying debris.
Do not take elevators during an earthquake.
If cooking, turn off heating elements immediately.
If outdoors, stay in open areas away from buildings, power lines, trees and other potential hazards.
If driving, stop quickly but safely and stay in the vehicle. Do not stop near power lines, bridges, overpasses or other potentially dangerous locations.
Stay calm and brace yourself to keep your balance, sitting if possible.

After an Earthquake

Quick thinking after an earthquake hits can minimize immediate dangers. Proper earthquake safety precautions after a tremor include:

Be prepared for aftershocks, which may be stronger than the initial jolt.
Tend injuries immediately and summon emergency assistance if necessary.
Check for structural damage but do not enter a building that shows damage or has visible cracks in the walls or foundation.
Wear shoes at all times to avoid stepping on broken glass.
Turn off gas, electricity, and water if damage is suspected or if advised to do so by authorities.
Be cautious opening cabinets, cupboards and closets in case items may be poised to fall.
Keep phone lines clear for emergency use.
Be patient: It may take hours or days to restore all services depending on the severity of the quake.

Additional Disasters to Prepare For

Earthquakes can trigger additional emergencies, and individuals should also be prepared to contend with these related natural hazards:

Tsunamis near coastal areas
Landslides or mudslides in mountainous regions
Fires if gas lines are ruptured or power lines spark blazes
Flooding if dams break or rivers are diverted

These hazards will vary based on where the earthquake hits and how strong it is, but thorough safety precautions will address these additional disasters if necessary.

In Conclusion

An earthquake can be a terrifying event, but taking proper earthquake safety precautions can help limit that terror through careful planning, organization, and emergency procedures to keep people and homes safe.