| If you are physically able – DROP, COVER and HOLD ON · DROP to the ground. · Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or chair (cover your head and neck with your arms and hands). Keep away from glass, windows or anything that could fall near you. · HOLD ON to your shelter until the shaking stops. If a resident is in a wheelchair – · Tell/assist the resident to LOCK their wheels in a safe position. · Tell the resident to COVER their head and neck with their arms. If a resident is confined to a bed – · Tell the resident to HOLD ON and PROTECT their head with a pillow. |
| Activate facility’s EOP and appoint a Facility Incident Commander (IC) if warranted. |
| Assign staff to assess residents for any injuries that require immediate attention. |
| Assign staff to assess the facility for damage that requires immediate attention (e.g., gas leaks, fires, broken glass, spills, etc.) · If a gas leak is suspected (e.g., you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise), shut off gas and contact the proper utility company for restoration. · Do not allow any flame source until you are certain the gas lines have not been affected. · Inspect the facility for small fires (a common hazard after an earthquake); extinguish as necessary and/or call 9-1-1. · Look for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you must step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice. · Check for sewage and water lines 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. · Heed public health notices/orders regarding water contamination (including the following notices: Boil Water, Do Not Drink Water, and Do Not Use Water). Consider all flood water contaminated. Avoid walking through flood waters and wash hands thoroughly after contact. Do not use pre-packaged food and drink products that come into contact with flood water. When in doubt, throw it out! Report utility problems to appropriate utility company/agency. · Activate your emergency water plan. See Appendix R – Disaster Water Supplies for further information. |