After An Earthquake

Disaster Guide

Contents

  1. Immediately after an earthquake
  2. Still inside the damaged building 
  3. Outside the home

This guide gives quick, life-saving steps to follow immediately after an earthquake. It can help you stay safe from aftershocks, building collapse, fire, and other dangers, whether you're inside or outside. 

Use it to protect yourself, help others, and avoid serious harm in the first days after an earthquake.

Immediately after an earthquake

1. Expect aftershocks.

  • Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that follow a larger earthquake. These can happen minutes, days, weeks, or even months after an earthquake.

  • If you feel shaking: DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON.

2. If you are trapped, attract attention to yourself.

  • Send a text, bang on a wall or a pipe, or use a whistle to help rescuers find you.

  • Protect your mouth, nose, and eyes from dust.

3. Treat wounds quickly

  • Even small cuts can become infected in disaster conditions.
  • Clean with safe water if available. Cover with a clean cloth or bandage.
  • Learn more about proper wound care after a disaster here.

4. Help others if you can

  • First, check yourself for injuries
  • Then assist people nearby -- children, elderly, or injured

5. Stay informed

  • Use a battery-powered radio or phone (if working) to get updates.
  • Save phone calls for emergencies — SMS or radio may be more reliable.

6. If you are near the coast:

  • If you are near the coast: Earthquakes can cause tsunamis. Move inland and to higher ground immediately, even if there's no warning yet.

If You Are Still Inside a Damaged Building

Check for Danger

  • Cracks in walls, floors, staircases = unsafe structure
  • Check your home's walls, floors, doors, windows, and staircases for damage. 
    • If you see structural damage, like cracks in the foundation or missing support beams, leave and find shelter outside (avoid damaged buildings).

Smell Gas or See Damage?

  • Do NOT use matches, lighters, or switches — sparks can cause explosions.
  • Check gas, electric, and water lines.
  • If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave immediately and go far away.
  • Call for help when safe.

If the power is out, use flashlights instead of candles.

  • Use flashlights, not candles.
    • If you must use candles: never leave them unattended and keep away from anything that can catch fire. 
  • Know how to use a Fire Extinguisher:
      1. Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
      2. Aim low at the base of the fire.
      3. Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
      4. Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Carbon monoxide (CO) Safety

  • NEVER use charcoal stoves or fuel-burning generators indoors.
  • Always cook outside, far from windows or tents.
  • CO gas is deadly — you can’t smell or see it.

Outside the home

Stay away from damaged buildings

  • Do not enter a damaged building.
  • If you hear shifting or unusual noises, leave immediately — building may collapse.

Stay away from power lines

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Disaster Guide