Earthquake Information - What to do for NEXT time

Earthquake Information – What to do for NEXT time

4.8 Magnitude earthquake rocks Andaman Islands-Telangana Today

During an Earthquake: STAY CALM!

If you are INDOORS — STAY THERE! Get under a desk or table and hang on to it (Drop, Cover, and Hold on!)
DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and reduces your chances of being hit by falling or flying objects.
COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall. Stay on your knees; bend over to protect vital organs.

HOLD ON until the shaking stops. Under shelter: hold on to it with one hand; be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts. No shelter: hold on to your head and neck with both arms.

If you are OUTSIDE — get into the OPEN, away from buildings, power lines, chimneys, and anything else that might fall on you.

If you are DRIVING — stop, but carefully. Move your car as far out of traffic as possible. DO NOT stop on or under a bridge or overpass or under trees, light posts, power lines, or signs. STAY INSIDE your car until the shaking stops. When you RESUME driving, watch for breaks in the pavement, fallen rocks, and bumps in the road at bridge approaches.

After the Earthquake:

Evaluate the situation.
Check on Family Members
Establish communication.
Do not use Elevators.
Do not enter damaged structures.
Inspect your property to determine if any damage exists, paying particular attention to walls, foundations, and steps. If you notice damage, take pictures. If such damage exists, please contact your Insurance Company
Check utilities:
- Check for gas leaks: If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, quickly leave the building. Get a safe distance away from the building and call 911
- Look for electrical system damage: If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell burning insulation, leave the building, get a safe distance away from the building and call 911
- Check for sewage and water line damage: If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap. You can obtain safe water from undamaged water heaters or by melting ice cubes.
Watch for loose plaster, drywall, and ceilings that could fall.
Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to inspect your home. Kerosene lanterns, torches, candles, and matches may tip over or ignite flammables inside.
Inspect the entire length of the chimneys carefully for damage. Cracks in chimneys can be the cause of a fire years later.