Safety Procedures for Earthquakes

Every year a major earthquake occurs somewhere on the planet, and there is no reliable way of predicting exactly when and where the next one will strike. Even a minor temblor in a populated area can cause disruption, sending dishes flying and downing power lines. Knowing what to do when an earthquake strikes can very well be a matter of life and death.

Before an Earthquake

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends planning ahead for earthquakes by checking for hazards such as loose shelving or breakable objects stored in high cabinets, and keeping gas and electrical lines in good repair. FEMA also recommends keeping a disaster supply kit in the house, which should include food, water, a battery-powered radio and a flashlight. Do not forget to keep a battery-powered can opener in your kit as well. Keep your family well educated about what to do in the event of an earthquake, and have a plan for staying in touch in case you get separated. Finally, work with your community to help develop a long-range strategy for emergency response.

During an Earthquake

• If you are inside, stay there. Drop to the ground and seek shelter under a table or other sturdy piece of furniture. If there are none available, crouch in an inside corner and cover your face with your arms. Keep away from windows, overhead lights and anything else that can fall. If you are in an apartment or high-rise building, move to the reinforced core of the building, usually located by an elevator shaft. Do not try to run outside.

  If you are outside, move away from buildings and utility poles and stay in the open until the shaking stops. Do not try to run into a building. The Los Angeles County Fire Department cautions that the greatest danger in an earthquake exists along exterior walls, and most outdoor fatalities occur to people who are too close to falling buildings. If you are driving, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, and stay in your car. Park a safe distance from trees, buildings and utility lines, and stay away from bridges or ramps that may have been damaged.

After an Earthquake

• Expect aftershocks. Earthquakes are seldom singular events, and the next temblor may be bigger than the one you just experienced. Use a battery-powered radio to stay in touch with the disaster response, and use telephone lines only for emergencies. If you live in a coastal area, monitor the radio for tsunami warnings, and move quickly away from the beach if one is issued. If you are indoors, open cabinets cautiously and clean up flammable or dangerous liquids immediately. Do not light fires or turn on electric lights. When it is safe to do so, inspect your electrical, gas and water systems for damage.

  Help injured people, and call for assistance if needed. Even though you have just been through a traumatizing experience, try to remain calm and help others cope. This is the fastest way to lessen the emotional aftershocks that you, and everyone around you, will be feeling.