Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
Before moving, check yourself for injuries. Adrenaline can mask pain. Assess others around you. Do not move someone with a suspected neck or spine injury unless they are in immediate danger. Apply first aid if you are trained. Call emergency services for serious injuries.
Expect and Prepare for Aftershocks
Aftershocks follow virtually every significant earthquake and can continue for days, weeks, or months. Some aftershocks may be nearly as strong as the main event. When you feel an aftershock, immediately Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Stay alert and away from damaged structures.
Check for Gas Leaks
If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound, or see a broken gas line, open windows and immediately leave the building without using any electrical switches (including light switches), matches, or anything that could create a spark. Turn off the gas at the main valve if safe to do so, and call the gas company from outside.
Inspect Your Building for Damage
Before re-entering a building, look for structural damage from outside: large cracks in walls or foundation, chimneys that appear shifted or collapsed, stairways or floors that look unstable. If in doubt, do not enter. Wait for official inspection if you see serious damage.
Do Not Use Candles, Matches, or Open Flames
After an earthquake, gas leaks may be present even if you cannot smell them. Do not use open flames for lighting. Use battery-powered flashlights or LED lights. Do not use the stove, furnace, or any gas appliances until a professional has confirmed lines are intact.
Access Emergency Information
Use a battery-powered radio or your mobile phone to access emergency broadcast information. Follow official instructions about road conditions, shelter locations, and water safety. Official sources include local emergency management agencies, USGS (for earthquake data), and your national disaster agency.
Document Damage for Insurance
Once safety is established, photograph or video all visible damage before beginning any cleanup. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and disaster assistance applications. Contact your insurance company as soon as practical.
Be Aware of Tsunami Risk
If you felt a large earthquake near the coast, do not wait for an official warning — immediately move to higher ground. Tsunamis can arrive within minutes. A natural warning sign is the rapid retreat of ocean water from the beach. If you see this, run to high ground immediately.
