Federal guidance lays out clear steps before, during and after an earthquake. Ready.gov from the Federal Emergency Management Agency explains how to plan, practice, and protect in each phase. The U.S. Geological Survey adds that an alternative idea called the “Triangle of Life” does not apply to buildings constructed in the United States.
Before an earthquake
Ready.gov advises practicing how to protect oneself during earthquakes with family and coworkers. It also says to sign up for earthquake alerts to get notified before an earthquake happens. The site advises making an emergency plan that includes a family emergency communications plan with an out-of-state contact and a meeting place if people get separated.
Ready.gov says to make a supply kit with several days of food and water, along with a flashlight, a fire extinguisher, and a whistle. It notes that not everyone can afford to stock up, and says those who can afford it can make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies. The site adds that being prepared can lessen the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals by allowing minor issues to be handled at home.
Ready.gov advises protecting the home by securing heavy items such as bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and wall hangings, and by storing heavy and breakable objects on low shelves. It says to consider improvements to fix structural issues that could cause a building to collapse during an earthquake. Ready.gov also says to consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy and notes that a standard homeowner’s policy does not cover earthquake damage.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology highlights that falling objects are a major concern in an earthquake and says people can lessen this threat by moving heavy items positioned 48 inches or higher down to a lower height. NIST also notes there will be no warning and to be prepared for a series of aftershocks.
During an earthquake
Ready.gov says that if an earthquake happens, people should protect themselves right away. If inside, it says to stay inside, do not run outside, and avoid doorways. If in bed, Ready.gov advises turning face down and covering the head and neck with a pillow.
Ready.gov describes Drop, Cover and Hold On. It says to drop to hands and knees, cover the head and neck with one arm and hand, and, if a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath for shelter. It adds that if no shelter is close, crawl next to an inside wall, keeping away from windows, and hold on until the shaking stops.
If in a car, Ready.gov says to pull over and stop, and to set the parking brake. If outside, Ready.gov advises staying there, moving into an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines, and dropping and covering until the shaking stops to protect against flying debris. NIST adds to steer clear of windows and says not to leave a safe area; if the area appears stable, chances are it is as safe there as anywhere else.
The U.S. Geological Survey says the “Triangle of Life” is a misguided idea based on observations of an earthquake in Turkey and does not apply to buildings constructed in the United States. It states that “Drop, cover, and hold under a table or desk is still the best recommendation, according to the American Red Cross.”
After an earthquake
Ready.gov says there can be serious hazards after an earthquake, including building damage, leaks in gas and water lines, or power lines that are down. It advises expecting aftershocks and being ready to Drop, Cover and Hold On if one is felt. Ready.gov adds that if a building is damaged, go outside and move away from it without delay, and do not enter damaged buildings.
If trapped, Ready.gov advises sending a text or banging on a pipe or wall. It says to cover the mouth with a shirt for protection and to use a whistle instead of shouting. If in an area that may experience tsunamis, Ready.gov advises going inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops and avoiding contact with floodwaters, which can contain chemicals, sewage and debris.
Ready.gov says to check oneself for injury and help others if trained, and to seek medical attention by contacting a healthcare provider if sick or injured, or call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency. Once safe, Ready.gov advises paying attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media, or cell phone text alerts. It also says to use social media to let people know one is okay and to use text messages to communicate because this may be more reliable than phone calls and can save battery power.
Ready.gov advises being careful when cleaning up. It says to wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes, and not to try to remove heavy debris alone. Ready.gov says to use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris, and that people with asthma, other lung conditions, or with weakened immune systems should stay out of buildings that have indoor water leaks or visible or noticeable mold. It also says children should not take part in disaster cleanup work. NIST notes that, if necessary and if ordered to do so, people may evacuate and should be careful of downed electrical lines, falling debris and broken glass, and that instructions for evacuation will come from first responders.
Guidance for people who use mobility aids
Ready.gov gives specific steps for people who use mobility aids. For cane users, it advises to Drop, Cover and Hold On, or to sit on a chair or bed and cover the head and neck with both hands, and to keep the cane nearby for use when the shaking stops. For those who use a walker or wheelchair, Ready.gov says to lock wheels if applicable, get as low as possible if using a walker, bend over and cover the head and neck with the arms, a book, or a pillow, and then keep that position until the shaking ends.