If inside:

• Move only a few steps to a nearby safe place.
• Do not try to leave the building. Objects may fall on you.
• If you are in bed, stay there and try to protect yourself with a pillow.
• Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you’re sure it is safe to exit.
• Stay away from windows.
• The general rule is to drop, cover and hold on. That means drop under a pre-determined table/desk, hold on to one of the legs and cover your eyes by holding your head down.
• If in a high-rise building expect the fire alarms and sprinklers to go off during an earthquake.
• If you are in a coastal area, move to higher ground. Earthquakes may cause large ocean waves called Tsunamis.

If outside:

• Try to find a clear spot away from buildings trees, streetlights and power lines.
• Drop to the ground and stay there until the shaking stops.
• If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location.
• Stop and stay there with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking has stopped.
• If you are in a coastal area, move to higher ground. Earthquakes may cause large ocean waves called Tsunamis.

After an Earthquake

• Check yourself for injuries.
• Protect yourself from further injuries by putting on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes and work gloves.
• Once you have taken care of yourself, try to help others in need of medical attention.
• Do not use elevators.
• Look for and extinguish small fires.
• Leave the gas on at the main valve unless you smell gas or think it is leaking.
• If you do turn off your gas, do not try to turn it back on yourself. Improperly doing so may cause large explosions.
• Clean up spilled medicine, bleach, gasoline and flammable liquids immediately.
• Open closet and cabinet doors cautiously, contents may have shifted during the earthquake and could fall creating further damage or injury.
• Inspect your home for damage.
• Get everyone out if your home is unsafe.
• Help neighbors who may require special assistance.
• Listen to a portable, battery-operated radio or television for updated emergency information and instructions.
• Expect aftershocks. When you feel one, drop, cover and hold on.
• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• If you are away from home, return only when authorities say it is safe.
• Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to inspect your home.
• Carefully inspect chimney for damage. Unnoticed damage could lead to fire or injury from falling debris.
• Take pictures of the damage to the house and its contents for insurance claims.
• When entering buildings use extreme caution.
  • Examine walls, floor, doors, staircases and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
  • Check for gas leaks.
  • Look for electrical system damage. (sparks, broken or frayed wires) If you find any damage, turn off electricity immediately.
  • Check for sewage and water line damage.
  • Watch for loose plaster, drywall and ceilings that could fall.
• Use the telephone only to report lift-threatening emergencies.