Earthquake can be defined as a sudden violent shaking of the ground, typically causing great destruction, as a result of movements within the earth’s crust or volcanic action.
An earthquake is caused by a sudden slip on a fault. The tectonic plates are always slowly moving, but they get stuck at their edges due to friction. When the stress on the edge overcomes the friction, there is an earthquake that releases energy in waves that travel through the earth’s crust and cause the shaking that we feel.
Wherever you are when an earthquake starts, take cover immediately. Move a few steps to a nearby safe place if need be. Stay there until the shaking stops.
If you are indoors
DROP to the ground; take COVER by getting under a sturdy table or other piece of furniture; and HOLD ON until the shaking stops. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
Stay in bed if you are there when the earthquake strikes. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
Do not use a doorway except if you know it is a strongly supported, load-bearing doorway and it is close to you. Many inside doorways are lightly constructed and do not offer protection.
Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Do not exit a building during the shaking. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people inside buildings attempt to move to a different location inside the building or try to leave.
DO NOT use the elevators.
Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.
If you are outdoors
Go to an open area away from buildings.
If you are in a crowded public place, take cover where you won’t be trampled.
If you are outdoors during an earthquake
Ensure you do the following if you are outdoors during an earthquake:
Stay there.
Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls.
If you are in a vehicle
Pull over to a safe place where you are not blocking the road. Keep roads clear for rescue and emergency vehicles.
Avoid bridges, overpasses, underpasses, buildings or anything that could collapse.
Stop the car and stay inside.
Listen to your car radio for instructions from emergency officials.
Do not attempt to get out of your car if downed power lines are across it. Wait to be rescued.
Place a HELP sign in your window if you need assistance.
If you are on a bus, stay in your seat until the bus stops. Take cover in a protected place. If you can’t take cover, sit in a crouched position and protect your head from falling debris.
If you are trapped under debris
Ensure you do the following if you are trapped under debris during or after an earthquake:
Do not light a match.
Do not move around or kick up dust.
Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
AVOID the following in an earthquake
Doorways. Doors may slam shut and cause injuries.
Windows, bookcases, tall furniture and light fixtures. You could be hurt by shattered glass or heavy objects.
Elevators. If you are in an elevator during an earthquake, hit the button for every floor and get out as soon as you can.
Downed power lines – stay at least 10 metres away to avoid injury.
Coastline. Earthquakes can trigger large ocean waves called tsunamis.
What to Do Before an Earthquake
Make sure you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries at home.
Learn first aid.
Learn how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
Make up a plan of where to meet your family after an earthquake.
Don’t leave heavy objects on shelves (they’ll fall during a quake).
Anchor heavy furniture, cupboards, and appliances to the walls or floor.
Learn the earthquake plan at your school or workplace.
What to Do After an Earthquake
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.
Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities (use someone else’s phone).
Turn on the radio. Don’t use the phone unless it’s an emergency.
Stay out of damaged buildings.
Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.
Be careful of chimneys (they may fall on you).
Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis and seiches sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.
Stay away from damaged areas.
If you’re at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
Expect aftershocks.
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