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DISCLAIMER

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EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS
Before an Earthquake

Inside

• DROP below the level of the furniture around you. Get under a desk or table. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets and other objects that could fall.
• COVER your head with your hands and stay that way until the shaking stops.
• HOLD onto the desk or table; if it moves, move with it. HOLD YOUR POSITION- do NOT get up; do NOT run.

Outside

• Move to a clear area away from trees, signs or buildings.
• Remember: DROP, COVER and HOLD.

In a vehicle

• Reduce speed – do not slam on the brakes. Pull over to the side of the road. Keep away from bridges, overpasses, buildings, trees and other potential hazards.
• Stay in your vehicle until all shaking stops. Make sure there are no power lines down. Tune your radio (in Seattle) to KIRO AM 710 for emergency broadcasts.

SAFETY FIRST

• Move to a safe outside area away from buildings, trees and overhead wires. Think through the consequences of any action you take. Try to remain calm and reassure others.
• Check for injuries to your family and neighbors. Render first aid if you can.
• If you’re away from home, plan to stay wherever you are for at least 5 to 6 hours. Bridges and roads must be inspected for safety.
• Be prepared for after-shocks. They may cause weakened buildings to collapse.
• Check for damaged utilities:

• Inspect building for leaky gas lines by smell only. DO NOT use candles, matches or other open flames, and DO NOT turn lights on and off. If you smell gas, open all windows and doors so the gas can escape, and shut off the main valve at your gas meter. Leave your home immediately and do not re-enter the house until repairs are made and it is safe. DO NOT turn gas back on yourself. Wait for the utility company crews.
• If water pipes are broken, shut off the main valve which brings water into the house.

• Check on and gather together your emergency supplies, such as a portable radio, flashlight, fresh batteries, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, food, bottled water, cooking equipment, etc. Don’t forget to wear heavy shoes in all areas near debris or broken glass.
• If water is off, emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes and canned vegetables.
• If power is off, check your freezer and plan meals to use up foods which will spoil quickly.
• Use outdoor broilers or camp stoves for emergency cooking. But remember that this type of cooking equipment creates a potentially fatal carbon monoxide hazard and must be used outside.
• If water is off, emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes and canned vegetables.
• Clean up spills of dangerous chemicals or flammable liquids. Another option is to open windows and doors and mark the hazards clearly.
• DO NOT use your telephone except for a genuine emergency call. Anticipate that your phone will not work for some time.
• DO NOT flush toilets if you suspect sewage line to be broken.
• DO NOT touch downed power lines or objects in contact with downed wires.
• DO NOT spread rumors. They can cause great harm in a disaster.
• DO NOT go sightseeing! Keep streets clear for passage of emergency vehicles.
• Please cooperate fully with public safety officials.
• Listen to the radio (in Seattle, KIRO AM 710) for instructions from local authorities.

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