CNG Emergency Reaction Plan: Earthquake

INDOORS

Take cover under desks, tables (hold on to legs of tables when possible), doorways or other heavy furniture; choose to take cover near interior walls, leave doors open.

• Shield head with hands and elbows, shield eyes with arms, move away from windows, shelves, heavy objects, suspended objects, light fixtures and furniture that may fall.
• When the quake is over, evacuate the building as quickly as possible in a calm, orderly fashion. (Follow evacuation procedures).

Hall, Stairway, Gymnasium or other Area where No Cover is Available

• Move to an interior wall.
• Turn away from windows, kneel alongside the wall, bend head close to knees, and clasp hands firmly behind neck, cover the sides of your head with your elbows, with your back to the wall.
• When the quake is over, evacuate the building as quickly as possible in a calm, orderly fashion. (Follow evacuation procedures).

Library

• Move away from windows and shelves and take cover under a desk or table.
• Shield head with hands and elbows, shield eyes with arms, move away from windows, shelves, heavy objects, suspended objects, light fixtures and furniture that may fall.
• When the quake is over, evacuate the building as quickly as possible in a calm, orderly fashion. (Follow evacuation procedures).

Laboratory or Kitchen

• Turn off all burners and gas pipes (if possible) before taking cover.
• Stay clear of hot food, oil or hazardous chemicals or foods that may spill.
• When the quake is over, evacuate the building as quickly as possible in a calm, orderly fashion. (Follow evacuation procedures).

OUTDOORS

• Move to an open space, away from buildings and overhead power lines.
• Lie down or crouch low to the ground because your legs will not be steady. 
• Be aware of surrounding dangers that may demand sudden movement to another area of safety.

If trapped under debris

• Do not light matches
• Do not move about or kick up dust
• Cover you mouth with a handkerchief or clothing
• Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if available.
• Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

Evacuation at end of Earthquake

After the earthquake, evacuate building using stairs. Follow same procedures for evacuation. Be aware of aftershocks and falling debris.

• Stoves or furnaces should not be used until it has been declared safe to do so by the local authorities. Inform students NOT to touch any fallen electrical wires outside.
• Do not smoke or light a match or torch during or after an earthquake.