Before an Earthquake
Secure heavy furniture like bookcases, water heaters, and televisions to walls using brackets or straps. Store breakable items in low, closed cabinets. Learn how to shut off your gas, water, and electricity at the main valves. Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, a whistle, and a first-aid kit. Identify safe spots in every room: under sturdy desks, tables, or against interior walls away from windows. Practise Drop, Cover, and Hold On drills with your household. Check real-time seismic activity on NaturalDisasters.online using the USGS earthquake feed.
During an Earthquake
If indoors, stay there. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows, glass, heavy furniture, and anything that could fall. Do not use lifts. If outdoors, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. If driving, pull over to a clear area, stop, and stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on. If in a coastal area, be aware of tsunami risk — move to higher ground immediately if you are near the ocean and the shaking lasts longer than 20 seconds.
After an Earthquake
Expect aftershocks — they can occur minutes, hours, or days later. Check yourself and others for injuries. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate immediately and report it to the gas company. Inspect your home for structural damage, but do not enter if it looks unsafe. Listen to local radio stations or check alerts via NaturalDisasters.online for official instructions. Stay away from beaches until tsunami warnings are lifted. Use your phone only for emergencies to keep lines clear for rescue services.
