Earthquake

Keep an earthquake preparedness kit on hand. Include the following:

• Food and water – at minimum, a 3 day supply (a 7 day supply is ideal)
• First Aid kit and First Aid manual
• Large and small heavy-duty plastic bags, duct tape and scissors
• Extra prescriptions and eyewear
• Heavy-duty shoes and gloves
• Extra clothing, and a whistle
• Rescue tools
• Portable TV and/or radio with extra batteries
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Cash (ATMs and credit cards may not work)
• Emergency Phone List, including family at work, school, daycare, etc.
• Long-distance message check-in phone number
• Cell phone

Most earthquake-induced injuries are caused by falling objects or debris that has become dislodged by the quake. During an earthquake, please observe the following:

• Remain calm, do not panic.
• Stay in the office area.
• Take cover under tables, desks, or strong doorways.
• Keep away from windows and glass doors.
• Keep clear of filing cabinets, shelves and tall stacks of materials.
• Check for any injured personnel and administer first aid where necessary.
• Floor Wardens should assess damage and injuries and be prepared to expedite evacuation of serious cases.
• In the event of a fire resulting from an earthquake, follow the fire emergency procedures.

Elevators are equipped with seismic detectors, which when activated, will automatically stop the elevator at the nearest floor; if they are occupied at the time, inhabitants should exit immediately.

After an earthquake:

1. Be prepared for aftershocks. While aftershocks are generally smaller than the earthquake that generates them, they can cause additional damage.
2. If you smell gas, notify the Building Office or Security immediately.
3. Check immediate location – make sure you are safe.
4. Check for injuries and apply first aid as needed. Be prepared for an absence of immediate emergency services, and be prepared to help yourself and others.
5. Extinguish any fires. Do not light matches. Do not smoke.
6. Listen for news or pertinent instructions on the radio or television.
7. Do not use the telephone unless you have a dire emergency; ensure that all telephone receivers are properly mated to their cradles.
8. Conserve, and responsibly ration food and water.