EARTHQUAKE

Traditionally, we think of the west coast of the United States as being the only area at risk for a major earthquake. However, the possibility for earthquakes exists everywhere in the country with 45 U.S. States and territories at moderate to high risk of major earthquakes.

In most cases, earthquakes offer no warning. The only real way to increase your chances of surviving a major earthquake is to plan and prepare well in advance.

Most deaths and injuries during earthquakes occur from falling debris and general lack of knowledge. Prepare your home and familybefore an earthquake occurs.

Be sure that you and your family know the safest building evacuation route(s).
Store your disaster preparedness supplies in a “safe area” so they can be recovered if your home is damaged.

Identify “safe” areas in your home and make sure that your family knows to go there during an earthquake.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not safe to stand in doorways during an earthquake. Research shows that these areas often collapse and crush the victim.
It is safer in areas next to sturdy furniture, not under them. When buildings collapse, the weight of the ceiling falling crushes these objects, leaving a space or void next to them - NOT under them.
Next to a vehicle in a garage, not under it or inside of it.
Stay away from windows or tall heavy objects that could fall on you.

If you are indoors during an earthquake:

You should stay there. Research shows that most deaths and injuries occur when people try to move too far during an earthquake.

Move to the nearest “safe” area.
Curl up into the fetus position and cover your face and head with your arms.
If you are in bed, roll out of the bed to the safe area on the floor next to the bed. Protect your head with your pillow.
Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside.
Be aware that the electricity may go out or the fire sprinkler system or fire alarms may turn on.
DO NOT use elevators.

If you are outdoors during an earthquake:

Stay there.
Move to an open area, away from buildings, power lines, streetlights or any other objects that might fall.
Stay in the open until the shaking stops. The most dangerous place during earthquakes is near structures where falling debris is responsible the greatest number of injuries and deaths.

If you are in a moving vehicle during an earthquake:

Stop as quickly and safely as possible. Do not stop near or under buildings, trees, overpasses or utility wires.
Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking has stopped.
Once the earthquake has subsided, proceed very carefully. Roads, bridges and ramps may have been damaged.

After an earthquake:

Expect aftershocks. These may be powerful and could cause additional damage. Proceed cautiously.
Evacuate the building calmly. Move away from structures and objects that could fall.
If your building has been damaged and it is safe to do so, turn off gas, electricity and water.
Check for fire.
Avoid reentering damaged buildings.
Listen to your battery-operated radio or television for information. If you live near the ocean, listen for tsunami warnings. If needed, refer to your tsunami checklist.
Check on your neighbors to see if they need assistance
Inspect your utility connections for damage. Check for gas leaks, electrical damage and water and sewer line damage.
If it is safe to enter your home, conduct a walk-through safety check.
Use the telephone for emergencies only.
If it is safe, recover your disaster preparedness supplies.

USGS Earthquake Tracking

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