EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURES
I. Earthquake
During an earthquake:
If INDOORS, stay indoors, do not rush for exits:
· Move away from windows that may break and furniture or large objects that could fall over
· Drop to the ground, Take Cover under a table, bench or desk 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
· Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and you know it is a strongly supported, load bearing doorway
· Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. 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
· Expect fire alarm and sprinkler systems to activate and the electricity to go off
During and earthquake:
If OUTDOORS, stay outdoors:
· Move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, utility poles and lines; and,
· Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. (The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects).
If TRAPPED under debris:
· Do not light a match
· Do not move about 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
AFTER the earthquake
· Check the students, take attendance and provide help as needed
· Offices/Classes with walkie-talkies and radios should check with their neighboring assigned classroom and report status to the MOMI Emergency Management Team as soon as safely possible
· Wait for instructions from the MOMI Emergency Management Team