Earthquake
- Know location of possible safe refuge areas outside and away from the building in case evacuation is necessary. In most cases, it is safer to remain inside the building.
- It is recommended that you have: See page E 3-3c for additional items.
- a First Aid Kit (check & maintain quarterly);
- a radio and flashlight with extra batteries (check & maintain quarterly);
- sturdy shoes and heavy gloves in case of broken glass;
- hard hat in case of falling objects;
- if you are on any medication, have a 5-7 day supply with you at all times;
- water: store extra bottles of water, rotate the bottles regularly.
- food: for all employees and visitors.
- It is recommended that you be prepared to be on your own for 3-5 days.
- 3. Reduce non-structural hazards. For example: secure top heavy objects - bookcases,filing cabinets, etc. to structural elements of building. Remove all heavy objects from high shelves and secure cleaning liquids and other chemicals on shelves to prevent spillage.
- 4. Have a plan for reuniting your family. You will not be able to function at work effectively if you are worried about your family. Make sure they know what to do. Have an out of state contact person. So later if you are able to use a phone, you can check to see who is accounted for.
- 5. First Aid Training is highly recommended. For more information on Earthquake Preparedness contact the American Red Cross or your local Fire Department.
DURING AN EARTHQUAKE: DROP, COVER & HOLD ON
- DROP to the floor.
- Take COVER under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture. If that is not possible, seek COVER against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid danger spots near windows, hanging objects, mirrors and tall furniture.
- HOLD ON. If you take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, HOLD ON to it and be prepared to move with it. HOLD this position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
- Stay away from windows, bookcases, filing cabinets and any objects that may fall or shatter.
- Do not dash for exits, since stairwells may be damaged.
- Do not use elevators until they are checked for safety.
- Do not be surprised if electricity goes off.
- Do not smoke or use matches or lighters in case of gas leaks.
- BE PREPARED FOR AFTERSHOCKS.
AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE:
- Check for injured and assist. Do not attempt to move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.
- Inspect your floor for damage. Check for fires. Check utilities - gas and water leaks and electrical shorts.
- If you suspect a gas leak DO NOT use matches, cigarette lighters or turn on electrical switches or appliances. If you smell gas, contact the Office of the Building immediately.
- Determine the necessity for evacuation. If life threatening, begin evacuation. Direct occupants to a safe area away from the building. This area cannot be predetermined. It will vary depending upon the earthquake damage. Generally it is safer to remain inside the building
- Open doors carefully. Watch for falling objects.
- Wear shoes and gloves for protection from debris and broken glass.
- Stay away from windows/glassed areas.
- Replace telephone receivers, so telephone system will work. However, telephones should be used for emergency calls ONLY.
- Gather your earthquake supplies. Listen to radio for emergency reports (KOGO 600 AM, KLSD 1360 AM, KNX 1070 AM, KFWB 980 AM).
- Do not cause panic with the spreading of rumors regarding the building condition, extent of damage and injuries, etc.
- Cooperate with Public Safety Officials.
BE PREPARED FOR AFTERSHOCKS.
WHEN CAN OCCUPANTS GO HOME?
It is best that in the event of an earthquake or community wide disaster during normal
working hours, that all occupants should remain at work. It may be too dangerous to attempt
to go home right away. Encourage occupants to listen to radio reports for areas and roads
that have sustained damage. Discourage leaving until they know roads are undamaged and
traffic is moving. Encourage occupants to assist Suite/Floor Wardens as necessary.
EMERGENCY SUPPLY CHECKLIST - FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL
The following is a list of recommended supplies for all occupants. Remember you may be
on your own for 3-5 days OR MORE.
_____ Portable radio and extra batteries
_____ Flashlights and extra batteries or lightsticks. Do not use matches or candles after
an earthquake due to potential gas leaks.
_____ Whistle
_____ Heavy gloves & sturdy shoes
_____ Change of clothing
_____ Dust masks
_____ Water - 2 quarts to 1 gallon per person per day
_____ Food - packaged, canned, survival food bars, etc.
(Can opener - non electric)
_____ First Aid Kits and First Aid Book
_____ Large plastic bags for trash, waste and water protection
_____ Sanitation supplies such as toothpaste, toothbrush, waterless soap, toilet paper
etc.
_____ Extra prescription for medicines
_____ Extra glasses or contact case and solution
_____ Cash (ATM's may not work)
_____ EMERGENCY PHONE CONTACTS, INCLUDING OUT OF STATE CONTACT
Supplies should also be stored in your car and at home. For additional information on
recommended supplies contact the American Red Cross.
BE PREPARED.