Earthquake Preparedness
"Drop, Cover and Hold On"
Alaska experiences over 20,000 earthquakes per year (Source: Alaska Earthquake Information Center). Find out what you can do to stay safe during and after the next earthquake.
Before an Earthquake strikes:
- Prepare a disaster supply kit - at home, at work, and for your car;
- Secure bookcases, file cabinets, pictures, mirrors, etc. to walls. Include hot water heaters and other appliances, which could move and rupture gas or electrical lines;
- Know where to locate switches and how to turn off home gas, electricity and water;
- Develop a family plan for disasters;
- Practice earthquake safety drills;
- Be able to take care of yourself and your family for 5 to 7 days after a disaster, before emergency services may be able to reach you;
- Know basic first aid;
- Know emergency phone numbers;
- Know how to open and close an automatic garage door manually.
During an Earthquake
- Stay calm and stay where you are; if inside, stay inside; if outside, stay outside;
- If inside: DROP - COVER – HOLD ON Take cover under a heavy desk or against an inside wall away from glass and falling objects.
- If outside: Safely move to a clear area, away from buildings, over passes, signs, utility lines and trees. Sit on the ground; do not stand up.
- On the road: Drive away from underpasses and overpasses. Stop in a safe area. Stay in your vehicle.
After an Earthquake
- Be prepared for aftershocks
- Listen to the radio for public safety instructions; tune into KFQD 750 AM
- Check for injuries and provide first aid
- Check for safety hazards: gas or water leaks, sewage breaks, downed power lines, etc. Check for any building damage & evacuate if dangerous.
- Properly clean-up spilled medicines, bleaches and other hazardous materials
- Phone lines should be kept as clear as possible for true emergency situations