SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

BEFORE, DURING AND

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE
QUARTER 4
 BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Move heavy objects from high shelves to lower shelves to reduce the
danger and injuries from falling objects.

2. Fasten cabinets, shelves, mirrors, and heavy

objects to the walls.

3. Place heavy and breakable objects away from bed where they can fall on
sleeping people.
BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

4. Secure light bulbs/lamps and frames found above the bed so that they
will not fall in case of an earthquake. Beds should not be next to large
windows.

5. Cabinet doors should have locks to prevent contents from spilling out.

6. Turn off the gas tank in your home to reduce the chance of having fire.

7. Store water and dry food supplies

good for a few days.
DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Stay as calm as possible.

2. If you are indoors, stay away from windows or any

objects that could fall on you. Stand against a wall near the center of the
building. Seek shelter in a doorway, doorframe or take cover under a
durable table or desk. If you smell gas, open a window and leave your
house or building immediately.

3. If you are outdoors, stay in an open area away from anything that could
fall on you.
DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

4. If you are in a public place,

take cover. Do not rush for the
doors and don’t get in an
elevator.

5. If you are inside the car or

any vehicle, stop the car. Stay
inside the car until the
earthquake stops.
 AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Check yourself, your family members, and other people near you for
injuries. Provide first aid to those who need help.

2. Check your house or building for structural damage. If water and gas
lines are damaged, an adult should shut off the valves. If you smell gas,
leave the building or the house immediately.

3. Look for wall cracks and floorboards and door frames that are out of
place.
AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

4. Check for water leaks, especially near electrical outlets or other sources
of electricity. If there are any frayed or broken wires, shut off the main
switch.

5. Open the radio. Keep phone lines clear for emergency calls.

6. Stay away from damaged buildings. Be careful around broken glass and
rubble. Wear boots to keep your feet safe.
AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

7. Use bottled water for drinking if possible. If no bottled water is

available, boil the water for ten (10) minutes (more at higher altitudes)
before drinking it until water is declared safe.

8. Stay away from beaches and coastlines. Tsunamis sometimes hit after the
ground has stopped shaking.

9. Expect aftershocks. Aftershock can weaken structure. Be aware.