ALL EMPLOYEES

1. Know locations of possible Safe Refuge Areas outside and away from the building in case evacuation is necessary.  In most cases, it is safer to remain inside the building.

2.    It is recommended that you personally have:

• A first aid kit
• A radio and flashlight with extra batteries
• Heavy gloves in case of broken glass
• 72 hour supply of medication with you at all times
• Water:  store extra bottles of water, rotate the bottles regularly

3.  Reduce non-structural hazards. For example: remove all heavy objects from high shelves and secure cleaning liquids and other chemicals on shelves to prevent spillage.

4.   Have a plan for reuniting your family. You will not be able to function at work effectively if you are worried about your family. Make sure they know what to do. Have an out-of-state contact person for family members to call to check and see who is accounted for.

5.   If you are certified in First Aid and/or CPR, make yourself available if the need arises.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

Get under a desk, table or other sturdy object and hold on, or brace yourself against an inside wall. Protect your head.   Doorways are not the safest place to cover.   

• Stay away from windows, bookcases, filing cabinets and any objects that may shatter. Do not exit until the shaking has stopped.
• Do not be surprised if electricity goes off.
• Do not smoke or use matches or lighters in case of gas leaks.
• The area near the exterior walls of a building is the most dangerous place to be. To stay away from this danger zone, stay inside if you are inside and outside if you are outside.
• Do not try to run outside or to another room – severe shaking will make it difficult to move.
• If you are outdoors, move to a clear area if you can safely do so; avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles, and other hazards.
• If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road, stop and set the parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over. If a power line falls on the car, stay inside until a trained person removes the wire.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Check for injured and assist. Do not attempt to move a seriously injured person unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.

2.   Inspect your area for damage. Check for fires, check utilities – gas, water leaks, and electrical shorts. Report findings to Emergency Director.

3.    If you suspect a gas leak DO NOT use matches, cigarette lighters or turn on electrical switches or appliances. If you smell gas, contact the Emergency Director immediately.

4.   Open doors carefully.  Watch for falling objects.

5.   Wear shoes and gloves for protection from debris and broken glass.

6.   Stay away from windows / glassed areas.

7.   Replace telephone receivers, so telephone system will work. Telephones should be used for emergency calls ONLY.

8.   Gather stored emergency supplies, i.e., first aid kit, CPR kit.

9.  Evacuate in a calm, orderly manner. Do not leave anyone behind.

10.Listen to radio for emergency reports – 1620 AM CitiSOUNDS

11.Do not cause panic with spreading of rumors regarding the building condition, extent of damage and injuries, etc.

12.Cooperate with Public Safety Officials.

WHEN CAN OCCUPANT GO HOME?

It is best that in the event of an earthquake or community-wide disaster during normal working hours, that all occupants should remain at work. It may be too dangerous to attempt to go home right away. Encourage occupants to listen to radio reports for areas and roads that have sustained damage. Discourage leaving until they know roads are un- damaged and traffic is moving.  Encourage occupants to assist as necessary; For example, organizing supplies, checking all flashlights, assisting in evacuation, checking work area for damage and report to Safety Director.

BE PREPARED FOR AFTERSHOCKS!!!