Survival guides · Disasters

After an Earthquake

WHEN TO USE THISThe shaking has stopped. Aftershocks, gas and damaged buildings are the danger now.

1. People first

   • Check yourself, then others. Treat bleeding first.
   • Don't move the badly hurt unless they're in danger right there — fire, gas, a falling wall.
   • Someone trapped? Don't try a big rescue. Mark where they are and get help — 911 if there's service, or send someone.

2. Check the building

   • Cracked foundation, tilted walls, sagging floors, a fallen chimney? Get out and stay out.
   • Gas — rotten-egg smell or hissing: open windows, get everyone out, shut it off at the meter if you can reach it safely.
   • No matches, lighters or light switches until the gas is off and aired out.

3. Shut off what's damaged

   • Sparks, broken wires, burning smell: main breaker off.
   • Broken pipes or brown water: main water valve off.
   • Never turn the gas back on yourself — the gas company does that.
   • How: see Shut Off Home Utilities.

4. Ready for aftershocks

   • They can come for days or weeks, and some are nearly as strong.
   • Stay out of damaged buildings.
   • Heavy things off high shelves.
   • Sleep with shoes and a flashlight by the bed.
   • Battery or hand-crank radio for news.

Sources: FEMA / Ready.gov · USGS Earthquake Hazards Program

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.