Dos and Don’ts During an Earthquake

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What would you do in an earthquake? And then after the shaking stops?

Next week is the “Great ShakeOut” earthquake drill. So far, 9.3 million people across the country have registered to take part in the drill. In San Diego County, more than 818,400 people have registered but we’re still a week away, we can raise those participation numbers and make sure our loved ones are prepared in case of an earthquake by getting them involved too. To do this, you can encourage your family and friends to know what to do in an earthquake and have them register at ShakeOut.org.

Register your family and practice the “Drop, Cover and Hold on!” safety technique on or before 10/17. The official drill is at 10:17 a.m. next Thursday (10/17), and many of us will be at work at that time. Check with your supervisor to see if your office can take part in the drill.

It may seem a little silly at first, but it truly is important that employees practice what they would do if an earthquake happened while they were at work. Everyone living in “earthquake country” like us, should know what to do no matter where we are, even at work.  The goal is to protect yourself (your head especially) from anything that might fall on you during the shaking.
If at work:

  • Drop and take cover immediately under a desk or sturdy table. Hold onto the leg of the table with one arm to make sure it stays over you and use your other arm to protect your head.
  • If a desk or table is not available, slide down along an interior wall and cover your head with your arms.
  • Avoid walking around or running indoors or outdoors. The shaking may cause items to fall on you or could cause you to fall.  Stay in a safe place until the shaking stops.
  • Avoid windows, mirrors, framed posters or pictures and other glass items which could shatter and hurt you.
  • Avoid tall and heavy furniture items that might topple onto you.
  • Avoid standing under overhead light fixtures or other items that may fall.
  •  Avoid getting on an elevator.
  • If outside in a clear area, sit down and cover your head until the shaking is over.
  • Avoid buildings and windows in case pieces break off.
  • Avoid trees and overhead utility lines because they could fall.
  • Avoid bridges if possible.
  • If in your car or a county vehicle, pull over in a clear area and wait.
  • Avoid buildings, bridges, trees and overhead utility lines as well.
  • After the shaking is done, check yourself and check on the wellbeing of your colleagues. Offices who serve members of the public should also check on customers.
  • There is potential for hazards within the facility such as fires, broken glass, and gas leaks or flooding.
  • If a building is deemed unsafe, employees may be asked to evacuate.

Now, we all know that during an emergency, everyone’s thoughts turn to their loved ones. Are they safe if you’re not at home with them?

  • Take steps at home to secure items such as water heaters, heavy furniture and glass items using braces, straps, or museum wax or gel so they won’t pose a hazard during shaking.
  • Practice the best responses during an earthquake with everyone.
  • Have a plan for emergencies and go over it with your family. A template is available at www.ReadySanDiego.org  by clicking on the Family tab.
  • Have emergency provisions such as water, non-perishable food, first aid items, flashlights, batteries, prescribed medications, cash, and an emergency radio on hand. A list is also available on the ReadySanDiego site as well as other earthquake safety tips.

Please visit www.ShakeOut.org and register yourself and your family. Then get ready to ShakeOut on Oct. 17.