What to do before and during an earthquake

Poster-Präsentation „What to do before and during an earthquake“ im CMCK

Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning. Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake. Repairing deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations, anchoring overhead lighting fixtures to the ceiling, and following local seismic building standards, all this advance planning will help reduce the impact of earthquakes.

Check for Hazards in the Home:

Fasten shelves securely to walls, place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks. Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets.

Identify Safe Places Indoors and Outdoors:

Under sturdy furniture such as a heavy desk or table. Against an inside wall. Away from where glass could shatter around windows, mirrors, pictures, or where heavy bookcases or other heavy furniture could fall over. In the open, away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, overpasses, or elevated expressways.

Have Disaster Supplies on Hand:

Flashlight, Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries. First aid kit and manual. Emergency food and water. Essential medicines.

If you are indoors during an earthquake:

DUCK, COVER and HOLD! Get under a table or bench, cover your head, hold on to one of the legs and close eyes. If there is no table or desk, sit against a wall. Get away from windows and heavy things that might fall on you. WAIT until the shaking stops and than check if you or others around you are hurt. There may be several AFTERSHOCKS, so be prepared to return to your safty point. Calmly walk out to a safe area outside, away from buildings. Look out for fires. If you leave the building after the shaking stops, use the stairs. NEVER use lifts!

If you are outside:

Stay outside and move away from buildings, lights, power lines and trees. Crouch down and COVER your head!