Review the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for your area
Conduct earthquake drills
Put together or purchase an emergency kit including at least three days’ worth of food and water in your home and workplace
Install strong latches or bolts on cabinets, shelves, equipment and any other furniture
Place large, heavy and breakable items on lower shelves
Ensure cabinets are shut after each use to avoid spills and shattering of glass during an earthquake
Anchor top-heavy and freestanding furniture such as bookcases, cabinets and other tall furniture to wall studs to keep them from toppling over
Anchor overhead lighting fixtures to joists
Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs.
Respond
"DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON." If you are not near a sturdy table, drop to the floor against an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms
Avoid windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances and cabinets filled with heavy objects
Do not stand in doorways
Do not run out of your building during strong shaking, as you could be injured by falling debris (glass, roof tiles, concrete, etc.)
Do not use elevators
Stay inside a building after an earthquake unless there is a life-threatening situation
If you use a wheelchair, lock the wheels and cover your head.
Move to a clear area if you can safely walk.
Avoid buildings and trees.
Pull to the side of the road and stop
Avoid stopping under overhead hazards or near buildings.
Be prepared for aftershocks—they may be frequent and could exceed the first quake
Evacuate if it is safe to do so and proceed to your designated area
Check the people around you for injuries; provide first aid. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of a gas leak, hazardous material spill, fire or falling debris
Check for dangerous conditions such as fires, downed power lines and structure damage
Put out small fires immediately with a nearby fire extinguisher (if you are trained to use them)
Check office phones to ensure they have not been disconnected
Inspect your work areas for damage.
Move as little as possible to not kick up dust. Cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or clothing
Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if one is available (keep one in your emergency kit). Shout only as a last resort.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
