AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
- Check for injuries and treat the injured with first aid. Take steps to stop bleeding and call for medical assistance if there is an emergency. Don't attempt to move severely injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Cover them with blankets.
- Stay calm and use common sense.
- Use the telephone only to report severe emergencies.
- Put out fires. Don't use matches, lighters, candles, electrical switches or appliances in case there is a gas leak; use flashlights.
- Check gas, water and electrical lines and check appliances for damage. If you smell gas or see a broken line, shut off the main valve.
- Wear heavy shoes and gloves in areas near fallen debris and broken glass.
- Do not touch downed power lines or broken appliances.
- Clean up dangerous spills such as glass, bleach or medicines.
- Turn on a battery-powered or car radio for instructions and information.
- Check to see that sewage lines are intact before using toilet.
- Check water and food supplies. If water is cut off, use emergency supplies found in toilet tanks and water heater.
- Check the building for damage and cracks. Do not use the fireplace until it
is inspected.
- Check cabinets and closets. Open carefully and beware of falling objects.
- Watch for falling objects when you enter or leave buildings. Do not enter severely damaged structures.
- Do not use your vehicle, unless there is an emergency. Do not go sight-seeing to view damage. You may hamper the relief effort. Keep streets clear for passing emergency vehicles.
- Render aid and assistance to your community as needed.
- Be prepared for aftershocks. They can cause added damage. If near large body of water, evacuate to higher safe ground.
- If evacuation is necessary, post a message of where you can be found in clear view. Have designated reunion points. Have a 72-hour survival kit ready to take with you that includes: medicines, first aid kit, flashlight, radio batteries, important papers, cash, food, water, sleeping bags, blankets, and extra clothes.