What to do during an earthquake?

If you experience shaking and suspect that it may be an earthquake, do not panic.

If an earthquake hits while you are indoors, stay inside and take cover. Studies have shown that injuries and deaths caused by earthquakes over the last several decades are most often caused by falling or flying objects, such as TVs, lamps, glass, bookcases, etc. and not by the collapsed building. If you’re outdoors when an earthquake happens, then stay outside and do not try to go inside. Use the tips below protect yourself during an earthquake.

If you are indoors when a earthquake hits:

Drop down and take cover under a desk or table. Be prepared to hold on until the shaking stops.

Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to exit.

Stay away from bookcases and other furniture that can fall on you.

Stay away from windows and light fixtures.

If you are in bed – hold on and stay there. Protect your head with a pillow to protect yourself from flying glass and other debris.If you are in a wheelchair – go to a safe position and lock the wheels. Stay where you are and cover your head and neck with your arms if you are unable to move quickly to a safe location.If you are inside a high-rise – drop, cover and hold on.  Avoid windows and other potential hazards. Do not use elevators, and be prepared for sprinkler systems and fire alarms to activate.

If you are outdoors during an earthquake:

Drop to the ground in a clear spot away from buildings, trees and power lines.

If you are driving – pull over, stop and set your parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles and other things that may fall on your car.

What to do in stadiums, theater and large venues:

If you are in a stadium or theater – stay at your seat and protect your head and neck with your arms. Don’t try to leave until the shaking has stopped. Then, walk out slowly, watching for anything that could fall during aftershocks.

Avoid making these mistakes during an earthquake

Experts at the University of Washington and most rescuers caution against making these mistakes during an earthquake:

Do NOT run outside or to other rooms during the shaking. An earthquake’s shaking can cause you to fall down. You may also run into flying and falling objects that could cause serious injury.

Do NOT stand in a doorway. Doorways in modern homes are not stronger than other parts of the house, contrary to widely-held belief. In a doorway, you’re also at risk of being struck by falling or flying objects, the most common source of earthquake injuries.

Do NOT get in the “triangle of life” (getting next to a table rather than under it). Experts argue that “triangle of life” recommendations are based on wrong assumptions about what actually happens during an earthquake and it unpredictability. The safest bet to get underneath a table or desk.

What to do after an earthquake

📷

Earthquakes are commonly followed by aftershocks, some very strong in magnitude. What’s more, buildings that have been structurally compromised by an earthquake are more susceptible to collapse during these aftershocks. Earthquakes can also spur other natural disasters like tsunamis and landslides afterwards.

Once an earthquake is over, follow these steps to ensure your safety:

Look around to be sure it is safe to move.

If you are inside, exit the building and go to an open space far from any damage and other buildings.

If you have your cell phone, use it to call or send a text for help.

Help injured or trapped people, but do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of sustaining more injuries. Give first aid as appropriate.

Look for and extinguish small fires. Fire is the most common hazard after an earthquake.

Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the most recent emergency information.

Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in a coastal area, and stay away from the beach. If a tsunami warning is issued, assume that dangerous waves are on the way.

Go to a designated shelter if your home is no longer safe. You may text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area.

Stay away from damaged areas, unless police, fire or relief organizations specifically request your assistance. Return home only when the authorities say it is safe.

Be careful when driving after an earthquake and anticipate light outages.

Cautiously open cabinets. Beware of objects that could fall off shelves.

Visit Foodsafety.gov to learn how to keep food safe during and after an emergency, if you have access to an internet connection. If you don’t, then consult with emergency relief workers on how best to keep food and water safe.

Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes and work gloves to protect yourself against broken objects.

Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from chemicals.

Inspect the length of your chimney for damage. Damage that is undetected could lead to a fire.

Inspect your utilities: check for gas leaks; look for electrical system damage; and check for sewage and water lines damage.

Blog by Rohit Kumar.