Earthquake Preparedness
Purpose:
The
purpose of this policy is to establish the procedures to be
followed by the student body, faculty and staff in the event
of a earthquake. Implementation
of these procedures whenever necessary should minimize loss
of life, injury and disruption of scheduled activities.
Preparation:
Know the safest places in your office, work area or
living unit. These areas should be away from heavy
furniture, appliances, fireplaces, and large panes of glass.
(windows, mirrors, etc.)
During
an Earthquake:
1.
If you are indoors, drop to the floor.
Take cover under a sturdy desk, table or other
furniture. Hold
on to it and be prepared to move with it.
Hold the position until the ground stops shaking and
it is safe to move. Stay
clear of windows, fireplaces, wood stoves, and heavy
furniture or appliances.
Stay inside. If
you are in a crowded area, take cover and stay where you
are; encourage others to do likewise.
2.
If you are outside,
get into the open, away from buildings and power lines.
Be watchful for falling glass and building debris.
3.
If you are driving,
stop if it is safe, but stay inside your car. Stay away
from bridges, overpasses and tunnels. Move your car as far
out of the normal traffic pattern as possible. If possible,
avoid stopping under trees, light posts, power lines or
signs.
After
an Earthquake:
1.
Check
for injuries. Do not move a seriously injured person unless
he or she is in immediate danger of further injuries. If
you need emergency assistance, call Public Safety at ext.
3333.
2.
Be aware of any structural damage around you. If
necessary and safe to do so, carefully leave the building
per the General Building Evacuation guidelines.
3.
Always check for hazards.
·
Fire
or fire hazards.
·
Damaged
electrical wiring.
·
Downed
or damaged utility lines. Stay
away from downed lines, even if power appears to be off.
·
Fallen
objects in closets and cabinets.
Displaced objects may fall when you open the door.
·
Telephone.
Make
sure each phone is on its receiver. Telephones off the hook
can tie up the telephone network.
4.
Clean up potentially harmful materials and/or
medicines that may have spilled per the
Hazardous
Communication Plan.
5.
Expect aftershocks. Most of these are smaller than
the main earthquake. Some may be large enough to do
additional damage to weakened structures.
6.
If you are instructed to go to a shelter, take
blankets, a flashlight, clothing and snack items with you,
if possible.
