EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS - An Emergency Response

EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

Earthquake Terminology

Earthquake:

¨  a sudden slipping or movement of a portion of the Earth’s crust, followed by a series of vibrations.

Aftershock:

¨  an earthquake of less intensity that follows the main earthquake

Associated Hazards

•          Collapsing of buildings & bridges

•          Disruption of gas, electricity & phone services

•          Landslides & Avalanches

•          Flash Floods

•          Fires

•          Tsunamis

Before an Earthquake Hits

1)      Check for Hazards

2)      Identify Safe Places Indoors & Outdoors

3)      Learn How to Shut off Gas Valves

4)      Have Emergency Supplies on Hand

5)      Develop a Communication Plan

Check for Hazards

¨  Fasten shelves and décor securely to walls

¨  Place heavy objects on lower shelves

¨  Hang heavy items away from places where people sit

¨  Store any flammable products securely on bottom shelves in proper containers

Identify Safe Places

¨  Under sturdy furniture pieces such as a heavy desk or table

¨  Against an inside wall

¨  Away from any and all glass

¨  Away from heavy furniture that might fall over

¨  In the open, away from buildings, trees, electrical lines, overpasses etc.

Learn How to Shut off Gas Valves

Gas Valves - Know where your meter is located… everyone!

Utilizing the Shut-Off Valve

Turning Gas Valves “On”

Contact SDG&E to turn valves back “On”. Do not turn on yourself!

Workplace Disaster Supplies

¨  Flashlight & extra batteries

¨  Battery-operated radio

¨  Emergency food and water

¨  Nonelectric can opener

¨  Medication

¨  First Aid kit and manual

¨  Tools & Supplies

Communication Plan

¨  Persons to identify after earthquake ceases:

¤  Emergency Contact (family member/friend)

¤  Your buddy property

¤  Out of town contact

What to do During a Quake

Two Vital Tips

Ø  If you’re indoors, stay there!

Ø  Steer clear of:

Ø  Bookshelves

Ø  Storage racks

Ø  Windows

Ø  Glass and Mirrors

Ø  Light Fixtures

Ø  Any other heavy objects

DUCK under a strong table or other protection

COVER your head with your hands or other object

HOLD the position until safe

After the Quake

¨  Move very carefully

¨  Use caution when exiting or entering buildings

¨  Check for injured or trapped persons

¤  Do not move unless in immediate danger

¨  Check water supplies

¨  Salvage canned goods

¨  Turn-on battery-operated radio for latest safety reports

Immediately check for fires

¨  Fires start from broken gas line and appliance connections

¨  Use a flashlight when looking for gas leaks or fire hazards, do not use a lighted match or lantern!

¨  Don’t use electrical switches or appliances if gas leaks are suspected because sparks can ignite gas from broken lines

¨  Never touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed power lines

Utilize your Communication Plan

¨  Contact:

¤  Emergency Contact (family member/friend)

¤  Your buddy property

¤  Out of town contact (if quake is severe)

Test Your Knowledge

Identify the Quake Hazards

Any Others??

1. Clutter beneath desk
2. Glass door & windows
3. Portrait & vases on top of bookshelf
4. Free-standing light fixture, not secured

Identify the Quake Hazards

Any Others??

1. Hanging light fixtures
2. Clutter on ground
3. Heavy items on shelf
4. Unsecure items

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