EARTHQUAKE
During an earthquake, try to stay calm and follow the steps outlined below:
DUCK, COVER AND HOLD ON!
- When the earth or the buildings begin shaking, drop to your knees, clasp both hands behind your neck, bury face in your arms, make body as small or curled up as possible, close your eyes and cover ears with forearms.
- If indoors, seek shelter in an open doorway or under a desk or table; hold on to the table legs. Stay away from windows, shelves and heavy objects that could fall or move.
- If outdoors, move away from buildings, utility poles and other structures that could collapse.
- After initial shaking stops, evaluate situation and, if emergency help is needed, contact College Security, use red phone or send someone for help.
- Follow instructions from teachers, supervisors, or emergency services for safely turning off equipment like electrical or gas appliances.
- Evacuate the building by walking to the nearest clear exit, assisting people as you go. Be aware of hazards that may have occurred during the quake. Do NOT enter or use elevators.
- Once outside, move to a clear area at least 50 feet away from the damaged building(s). Keep walkways clear for emergency vehicles.
- Do NOT re-enter a building until an emergency specialist says it is safe to do so.
- Assist college staff and Security to determine that everyone has evacuated safely; give information about who was or was not present just before the earthquake to Security.
- Do NOT drive away immediately; traffic jams and road damage can make driving impossible and/or dangerous.
An Incident Command Center will be set up in the event of a major earthquake. Keep clear of the Command Center unless you have important information to report.