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Earthquakes

Before an Earthquake

  1. Secure bookcases, file cabinets and shelves.
  2. Secure all water storage against spillage.
  3. Secure wall attachments, computers, appliances, machinery.
  4. Install lip to front of bookcases and shelves.
  5. The Mayor‘s Office of Emergency Services suggests preparing for a 72 hour stay after an earthquake by storing the following items:
    a.       Packaged water.
    b.      Portable radio or television.
    c.       Batteries.
    d.      Flashlights, rope, small tools.
    e.       Canned goods, can opener.
    f.        Dried foods.
    g.      First-aid kits.
    h.      Prescription medication.
    i.        Blankets.
    j.        Flat shoes.


During an Earthquake

  1. Remain calm and reassure others.
  2. Take cover underneath a solid desk or table.
  3. Stay away from windows, filing cabinets, shelves, glass doors.
  4. Listen to announcements.
  5. DO NOT attempt to leave the building; you are safer in the Building than in the street.
  6. DO NOT use the stairwells or the elevators until you are officially advised it is safe to do so.
  7. If in an elevator, the elevator should go to the nearest floor and then open. Remain in the elevator lobby.
  8. If a fire is a consequence of the earthquake, remain calm and follow instructions of your Floor Warden and announcements on the public address system.


After an Earthquake

  1. Floor Warden’s responsibilities
    a.       Maintain calm control over occupants.
    b.       Search, rescue, head count.
    c.       Conduct first aid on any casualties.
    d.       Survey for damage.
    e.       Establish communication: both internal and external.
  2. General Guidelines
    a.       Watch for aftershocks. Wait for instructions. Keep head protected.
    b.       Watch out for falling glass or objects. Close curtains.
    c.       Floor Wardens should report injuries to Building Management.
    d.       Do not use matches, candles, or open flames. Gas may be present from broken pipes. Report any gas smell to Building Management.
    e.       Be prepared to shut off natural gas, water, electricity.
    f.        Turn a radio on. Telephones should be used only for emergencies.
    g.       Gather tables and group them towards the center of the Building.
    h.       Move people towards the center of the Building. Administer first aid to injured persons.
    i.        Do not evacuate until told to do so. Listen to instructions.
    j.        If evacuation is ordered, stay away from other buildings and watch out for falling objects.
    k.       In the event of a fire, follow emergency response procedures.