Earthquakes
An earthquake is a sudden shaking of the Earth caused by the breaking
and shifting of rock beneath the Earth's surface. Earthquakes can
cause buildings and ridges to collapse, down telephone and power lines,
and result in fires, explosions, and landslides. Earthquakes can
also cause huge ocean waves, called tsunamis, which travel long
distances through water until they crash into coastal areas.
Earthquakes occur most often in states west of the Rocky Mountains,
though violent earthquakes have occurred in the Eastern United States as
well. Populations in 41 states and territories are at moderate to
high risk. Scientists cannot precisely predict when an earthquake
will occur.
How to prepare for earthquakes
Look for items in your home that could become a hazard in an
earthquake. Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas
fittings, and inflexible utility connections. Bolt down water
heaters and gas appliances. Place large or heavy objects on lower
shelves. Fasten shelves to walls. Store bottled/canned
foods, glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets
that can fasten shut. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
Know where and how to shut off electricity and water at the main
switches and valves. Check with your local utilities for
instructions.
Locate safe spots in each room - under a sturdy table or against an
inside wall. Reinforce this information by physically placing
yourself and your family in these locations.
Identify danger zones in each room - near windows where glass can
shatter or near bookcases or furniture that can fall over. During
an earthquake each family member should move away from these danger
zones to the nearest safe spot.
Gather a Disaster Kit and prepare
for evacuation in case earthquake damage
is severe.
Develop a plan for reuniting with your family after an earthquake.
Establish an out-of-state telephone contact for family members to call
to let others know that you're okay. Review your insurance
policies. Some damage may be covered even without specific
earthquake insurance. Protect important home and business papers.
What to do during an earthquake
In an earthquake, keep calm and stay where you are. Most
injuries during earthquakes occur when people are hit by falling objects
when entering or exiting buildings.
If you are indoors, take cover under a sturdy desk, table or bench,
or against an inside wall. Stay away from glass, windows, outside
doors or walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures
or furniture.
If you are outdoors, stay there. Move away from buildings,
street lights, and utility wires.
In a crowded public place, do not rush for a doorway - other people
will have the same idea. Take cover and move away from display
shelves containing objects that can fall.
In a high-rise building, get under a sturdy desk, away from windows
and outside walls. Stay in the building on the same floor - an
evacuation may not be necessary. Be aware that the electricity may
go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may activate. Do
not use elevators.
In a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in
the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees,
overpasses, or utility wires or poles. Then, proceed cautiously,
watching for road and bridge damage.
What to do after an earthquake
Be prepared for aftershocks. These secondary shock-waves are
usually less violent than the main quake, but can be strong enough to do
additional damage to weakened structures.
Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured
persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further injury.
If you must move an unconscious person, first stabilize the neck and
back, then call for help immediately.
If the electricity goes out, use flashlights or battery-powered
lanterns. Do not use candles, matches, or open flames indoors
after an earthquake, because of the possibility of natural gas leaks.
Check your home for structural damage. If you have any doubts
about safety, have your home inspected by a professional before
entering.
Check chimneys for damage. The initial check should be made
from a distance. Have a professional inspect the chimney for
internal damage before lighting a fire.
Clean up spilled medicines, cleaners, and other liquids and
flammables from inside buildings. Evacuate the building if
gasoline or natural gas fumes are heavy and the building is not well
ventilated.
If water is cut off, use water from the water heater. Open
cabinets cautiously, being aware of objects that may have shifted and
could fall.
Use the phone only for emergencies, and listen to news reports for
the latest emergency information and further instructions.