Earthquakes

What To Do if You Are in an Earthquake

Remain calm. Self-control is key to reacting in the most proper, pertinent manner in case of an emergency.

If you can, leave your building immediately in an orderly manner. Proceed to a safe area, normally these areas are identified on maps posted within the building.

Do NOT use elevators.

Stay away from large pieces of furniture such as bookcases and anything that contains glass, including windows, mirrors and light fixtures. Beware of falling or sliding objects.

If you are far from an emergency exit, place yourself under a table or desk that is firm, heavy and isn't made of glass. Cover your head with both your hands, and tuck your head as close to your knees as possible. If such a location isn't accessible, move to a corner of the room, under a sturdy ceiling beam or take cover under the door frame and stay there.

When the earthquake comes to an end, evacuate the building.

Crowded Public Places

If an earthquake happens while you are inside a movie theater, shopping mall or in a highly congested place (and there is no emergency exit nearby), stay where you are, cover your head with both hands and curl up into a ball.

If you have a chance, identify a nearby safe place where you can take shelter. Again, beware of falling or sliding objects and glass.

If you are close to an emergency exit, evacuate the building calmly.

High-Rise Buildings

Protect yourself under a firm, heavy table, desk, door frame or next to a column or in a corner.

Do not rush to an emergency exit. Do not use elevators.

In a Car

Stop the car when it is safe to do so, without causing an accident. Do not park next to telephone poles, street lights, buildings, or large structures that may fall on you. Once the car comes to a stop, remain inside.

If you are on the highway, stay away from bridges and overpasses and remain inside your vehicle.

In the Street

Stay away from high-rise buildings and their easily shattered glass windows. Keep away from walls, poles, hanging wires and look out for falling objects. Avoid standing on sewer lids or other traps.

Proceed to an open area away from falling debris. Remain there until the earthquake comes to an end.

After the Earthquake Has Stopped

Physically inspect the building's structure for potential damage.

Do not occupy the house or building if damage has ocurred. The building may still collapse.

Do not light matches, candles, or anything that may provoke a fire or explosion. Gas leaks are probable. Do not turn on any electrical appliances until a full inspection has been completed by a professional.

In case of a gas or water leak, report these immediately.

Verify if there is a danger of fire or explosion, and if so, call the fire department.

Look for the wounded and seek medical assistance. 

Do not step on loose or fallen wires.

Do not eat or drink from open containers.

Do not use the telephone, except for emergency calls. Turn on the radio to find out about reported damage and to receive updated information on the emergency. Assist authorities with their tasks.

Beware of aftershocks, which may occur at any time. These are normally less intense earthquakes, but they can also cause severe damage.

Do not spread unfounded information. People may react hysterically or violently to rumors if, in their opinion, the news adversely affects their safety and protection.

Stay away from damaged buildings. The risk is high that they may collapse.

Large pieces of furniture, such as cabinets, may contain disheveled objects inside that will most likely fall when the doors are opened. When you do need to open the doors, be careful not to hurt yourself or those nearby.

If you are trapped, stay calm and try to communicate to someone outside by striking loudly on something.

By Mario Gonzalez-Roman (a retired Foreign Service National Security Advisor to the United States Embassy, current security consultant)

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