What will you do when there is an earthquake?

An earthquake is a sudden, fast shaking of the earth. Earthquakes can strike without warning causing fires, landslides and explosions. Earthquakes happen when rock that is below the earth's surface breaks and shifts.

Safety Message for Kids

  • If you are indoors during an earthquake, drop, cover and hold on. Take cover under a sturdy table, desk or bench... hold on to one of the legs and cover your eyes. If there are no tables nearby, sit down against a wall. Pick a safe place where objects such as wall hangings will not fall on you. Stay away from windows, bookcases and tall, heavy furniture.
  • Stay in your safety spot until the shaking stops. Check to see if you are injured and move carefully to avoid tripping over objects that may have fallen. Watch out for smaller earthquakes called aftershocks.
  • Look out for fires. Earthquakes often cause fire alarms and fire sprinklers to go off. If you have to leave the building, use the stairs and not the elevator.
  • If you are outside in an earthquake, stay outside. Move away from buildings, trees, street lights and power lines. Crouch down and cover your head. If you are in a car, stay inside.

Action Steps for Adults

  • Help children understand what to expect in an earthquake and how to protect themselves. Find safe places in different rooms of your home and practice how to drop, cover and hold.
  • Explain that it is dangerous to run outside as falling objects can be deadly and tell children to be prepared for aftershocks
  • Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances at home. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves and fasten shelves to the wall. Brace or anchor high or top-heavy objects.

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