Earthquake
An earthquake is the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth, caused by the breaking and shifting of underground rock. Earthquakes can cause buildings to collapse and cause heavy items to fall, resulting in injuries and property damage. Earthquakes can:
- Happen anywhere – though we are at a much higher here in California
- It often happens without warning
- Can cause fires, damage roads, lead to tsunamis, landslides, and avalanches
What to do When an Earthquake Strikes
What to Do Before an Earthquake
- Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home.
- Learn first aid.
- Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
- Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.
- Don't leave heavy objects on shelves (they'll fall during a quake).
- Anchor heavy furniture, cupboards, and appliances to the walls or floor.
- Make a plan.
What to Do During an Earthquake
- Stay calm! If you're indoors, stay inside. If you're outside, stay outside.
- If you're indoors, drop, crawl under heavy furniture (a desk or table) and hold on. Stay away from windows and outside doors.
- If you're outdoors, stay in the open away from power lines or anything that might fall. Stay away from buildings (stuff might fall off the building or the building could fall on you).
- Don't use matches, candles, or any flame. Broken gas lines and fire don't mix.
- If you're in a car, stop the car and stay inside the car until the earthquake stops.
- Don't use elevators (they may shut down).
What to Do After an Earthquake
- Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.
- Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities.
- Turn on the radio. Don't use the phone unless it's an emergency.
- Stay out of damaged buildings.
- Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.
- Be careful of chimneys (they may fall on you).
- Stay away from damaged areas.
- If you're at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
- Expect aftershocks.