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