Earthquake
If you are inside,
- Move away from windows, mirrors, tall bookcases, file cabinets or high stacked items and out from under beams, architectural elements and suspended light fixtures.
- Drop to the floor and, if possible, crawl under a sturdy table or desk.
- If not possible, stand in a corner or against a solid wall.
- Close eyes, clasp both hands behind neck, and cover ears and head with forearms.
- Do not move or evacuate the building unless instructed to do so by emergency personnel.
If instructed to do so or if circumstances deem necessary, calmly exit the building by way of the designated or nearest safe exit and report to the designated assembly area for your site.
- Assist handicapped persons and anyone with manageable injuries.
- Do not attempt to move anyone who is severely injured.
- Take your purse or wallet you. Do not take time to collect all belongings or to shut down computers.
- DO NOT run, use elevators, or close doors behind you.
- DO NOT smoke, light matches or activate any equipment or electrical switches.
- STAY AWAY from any structures, debris or utility lines.
- Designated personnel will take roll sheets with them and take roll in the assembly area.
- Designated personnel will take the first aid kits and deliver them to the command group area.
- Report attendance and injuries to command personnel.
- Assemble with your division in the designated area and remain there until instructed otherwise.
- Do not attempt to reenter the building until it has been officially declared safe.
- Be prepared for after shocks.
- Keep a radio on for information and updates.
If you are outside,
- Move away from buildings/areas subject to falling debris, glass, electrical wires, poles or trees.
- The safest place is in the open. Take cover in a doorway or archway if you cannot get to a clear area.
- Stay low, close eyes, and cover ears and head with forearms.
- Do not enter buildings until they have been officially declared safe.
- Be prepared for after shocks.
- Keep a radio on for information and updates.
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.
A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
- Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Manual can opener for food
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
- Download the Recommended Supplies List (PDF)
Additional Emergency Supplies
Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:
- Prescription medications
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Glasses and contact lense solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler's checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children