During an Earthquake:

1. You will likely hear a loud sound immediately before an earthquake.
2. Stay calm! Do not run. Stay where you are.
3. Inside: crouch under a table or desk and grasp its legs. If it moves, move with it. Stay away from windows, glass, and any object that could fall.
4. Outside: stand away from buildings, trees, and telephone and electrical lines. If you are on a sidewalk near a tall building, get into a doorway or lobby to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, lights, and overhangs that could collapse.
5. On the road: drive away from underpasses and overpasses, stop in a safe area, stay in your car. Listen to the radio for emergency instructions.
6. In a crowded, public place: do not rush for the exits. Move away from display shelves. If you are in a theater or stadium, stay in your seat, protect your head with your arms or get under the seat, if possible. Do not attempt to leave until the shaking stops.
7. In a wheelchair: stay in it. Move to safe cover in a doorway, if possible. Lock your wheels, and protect your head with your arms.

After an Earthquake:

1. Check yourself and those around you for injuries.
2. Evacuate damaged buildings. Do not re-enter until declared safe by authorities.
3. Call 9-1-1 only to report a life-threatening emergency.
4. Be prepared for aftershocks.
5. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, open windows and leave the building. Do not use matches, candles, open flames, or electric switches indoors. Shut-off the main gas valve outside.
6. Clean-up spills of potentially harmful materials, such as medicines and household cleaners. Combined chemicals may produce toxic gas.
7. Try to make contact with your out-of-area phone contact, but do not make local telephone calls.
8. Monitor your portable radio for instructions or an official "all clear" notice.
9. Provide assistance to your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled.

Emergency Supplies To Have On Hand:

• Food and drinking water
• First aid kit
• Medicines
• Blankets, warm clothing
• Rain gear
• Portable radios and batteries
• Flashlights and batteries

Quantities of emergency supplies should be adequate for at least a 72-hour period. As in any major disaster, plan on being self-sufficient for this period of time. For further information, contact the Fire Prevention Division at (425) 771-0215.