Take command in case of a major earthquake

  • Published
  • By Public affairs staff report
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  
September is Emergency Preparedness Month. In Alaska and the Pacific Rim, earthquakes are of great concern.

Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning.

Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and prior planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life.

Before an earthquake

Check for hazards in the home. Fasten shelves securely to walls and place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

Store breakable items such as bottled foods and china in low, closed cabinets.
Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds and couches.
Secure the water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and bolting it to the floor.
Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely.

Identify safe places in each room, under sturdy furniture such as a heavy desk or table or against an inside wall away from where glass could shatter around windows.

Locate safe places outdoors in the open, away from buildings, trees, electrical lines, overpasses, or elevated expressways.

Make sure all family members know how to respond after an earthquake. Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water.

Teach children how and when to call 911, police or fire department.

Have disaster supplies on hand including a flashlight and extra batteries, portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries, a first aid kit and manual, emergency food and water, a non-electric can opener, essential medicines and sturdy shoes.

Develop an emergency communication plan in case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake and develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster.

Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance.

During an earthquake
If indoors, take cover under a piece of heavy furniture or against an inside wall.
Stay inside; the most dangerous thing to do during the shaking of an earthquake is to try to leave the building.
If outdoors, move into the open away from buildings, street lights and utility wires until the shaking stops.
If in a moving vehicle, stop quickly and stay in the vehicle. Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, overpasses or utility wires. Once the shaking has stopped, proceed with caution. Avoid bridges or ramps that might have been damaged by the quake.

After the earthquake

Be prepared for aftershocks.

Aftershocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks, or even months after the quake.
Help injured or trapped persons and give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.
Listen to radio or television broadcasts for the latest emergency information. Stay out of damaged buildings.

Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches or gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately.

Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals. Open closet and cupboard doors cautiously.

Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building.

Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor's home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.

Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.
If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.

If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap.