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After an
Earthquake
Aftereffects
Be prepared for
additional earth movements called "aftershocks." Although most of these
are smaller than the main earthquake, some may be large enough to cause
additional damage or bring down weakened structures.
Because other
aftereffects can include fires, chemical spills, landslides, dam breaks,
and tidal waves, be sure to monitor your battery-operated radio or TV
for additional emergency information.
Injures
Check for injuries.
Do not attempt to move injured or unconscious people unless they are in
immediate danger from live electrical wires, flooding, or other hazards.
Internal injuries may not be evident, but may be serious or
life-threatening. If someone has stopped breathing, call for medical or
first aid assistance immediately and begin CPR if you are trained to do
so. Stop a bleeding injury by applying direct pressure to the wound. If
you are trapped, try to attract attention to your location.
Checking Utilities
An earthquake may
break gas, electrical, and water lines. If you smell gas: (1) open
windows; (2) shut off the main gas valve; (3) do not turn any electrical
appliances or lights on or off; (4) go outside; (5) report the leak to
authorities; and (6) do not reenter the building until a utility
official says it is safe to do so.
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If
electric wiring is shorting out, shut off the electric current at the
main box.
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If
water pipes are damaged, shut off the supply at the main valve.
Other Precautions
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Have
chimneys inspected for cracks and damage. Do not use the fireplace if
the chimney has any damage.
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Check
to see if sewage lines are intact before using bathrooms or plumbing.
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Do not
touch downed powerlines or objects in contact with downed lines.
Report electrical hazards to the authorities.
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Immediately clean up spilled medicines, drugs, flammable liquids, and
other potentially hazardous materials.
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Stay
off all telephones except to report an emergency. Replace telephone
receivers that may have been knocked off by the earthquake.
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Stay
away from damaged areas. Your presence could hamper relief efforts,
and you could endanger yourself.
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Cooperate fully with public safety officials. Respond to requests for
volunteer assistance from police, fire fighters, emergency management
officials, and relief organizations, but do not go into damaged areas
unless assistance has been requested.
Evacuating Your
Home
If you must evacuate
you home:
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Post a
message, in a prearranged location known only to family members,
indicating where you have gone.
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Confine pets to the safest location possible and make sure they have
plenty of food and water. Pets will not be allowed in designated
public shelters.
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Take
vital documents (wills, insurance policies, etc.), emergency supplies,
and extra medications with you.
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