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| Overview |
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Here is advice we received from our more experienced neighbor to the south. This advice is taken from a California Emergency Management Service brochure which they faxed to us. It should help inform your people on personal safety in an earthquake. We will have more coming to you on issues to help you with planning for earthquakes and other disasters.
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| What to do |
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Drop !
When you feel an earthquake, drop under a sturdy desk or table. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets, tall furniture, heavy mirrors, hanging plants, and other heavy objects that could fall. Watch out for falling plaster or ceiling tiles.
Cover !
Stay under cover until the shaking stops. If no desk or table is available, seek cover against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms.
Hold !
Hold onto the desk or table. If it moves, move with it. Hold the position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
Here are some additional tips for specific locations:
- If you´re in a high-rise building and you are not near a desk or table, move against an interior wall and protect your head with your arms. Do not use the elevators. Do not be surprised if the fire alarm or sprinkler systems come on.
- If you´re outdoors, move to a clear area, away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires and poles.
- If you´re on a sidewalk near buildings, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster, and other debris.
- If you´re driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over.
- If you´re in a crowded store or other public place, do not rush for exits. move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.
- If you´re in a wheelchair, stay in it. Move to cover. If possible, lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.
- If you´re in the kitchen, move away from the refrigerator, stove, and overhead cupboards. (Take time now to anchor appliances and install security latches on cupboard doors to reduce hazards.)
- If you´re in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms. do not try to leave until the shaking is over. Then leave in a calm, orderly manner.
After an earthquake, be prepared for aftershocks, and plan where you will take cover when they occur.
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| Before the Quake |
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Develop a home and workplace earthquake plan. Prepare yourself, your family, and your home by completing the activities on this checklist.
- Know the safe spots in each room; under sturdy tables or desks, or against inside walls.
- Know the danger spots; windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces, and tall unsecured furniture.
- Conduct safety drills; physically place yourself in safe locations.
- Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from your local American Red Cross chapter or other community organization.
- Learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity in case the lines are damaged. Secure water heater and appliances. (Safety note: Do not attempt to relight gas pilot. Call the utility company.)
- Secure heavy tall furniture that can topple; keep breakables and heavy objects on bottom shelves.
- Maintain emergency food, water, and other supplies, including a flashlight, a portable battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medicines, first aid kit, and clothing.
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| During the Quake |
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- If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the exits. Move away from shelves containing objects that could fall.
- If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table or stand in a corner.
- If outdoors, move into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls, and power lines.
- If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a table. Do not use elevators.
- If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside vehicle until the shaking is over
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| After the Quake |
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- Check for injuries. Apply first aid. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger.
- Do not use the telephone unless there is a serious injury or fire.
- Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring or sewage lines. If there is damage, turn off utility at the source.
- Check food and water supplies. Emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, toilet tanks, and canned vegetables.
- Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. Cooperate fully with public safety officials.
- Be prepared for aftershocks.
- Stay calm and lend a hand to others. For more information, contact your county emergency manager. The Oregon Emergency Management Office (phone: (503) 378-2911) can direct you if you need help.
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