If you are indoors when an earthquake starts
- STOP what you are doing and seek cover, a desk or the kitchen table. If you aren’t near anything strong enough to get under, drop to the ground close to a wall, away from anything that can fall on you, and cover your head and neck with your arms and hands.
- Avoid anything hanging on the walls, windows, large appliances, file cabinets and shelves.
- Do not try to run out of the structure you are in. Find a safe spot and stay put.
- After the quake, if you are in a city with tall buildings, it is safer to remain inside than walk outside, there could be falling debris from above.
- Do not use elevators.
If you are outdoors when an earthquake starts
- Move to a clear open area. Avoid power lines and anything that has a potential to fall.
- If you are driving. Pull over to a safe area, avoid stopping under overhead hazards. If you are on a bridge or overpass, get off immediately.
- If you are close to the beach, get to high ground. Earthquakes have to potential cause a tsunami.
Once the earthquake stops
- Always be mindful of your surroundings. After shocks can happen and knock loose more debris.
- Check the people around you. Administer first aid if needed. If the person is seriously injured, do not attempt to move them. Wait for rescue personnel.
- If you smell gas, turn the supply off.
If you are trapped in debris
- Move as little as possible. Asses your injuries and save your strength.
- Make a noise to alert rescuers to your location.
