Earthquake

A definition from ready.gov:
"An earthquake is the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth, caused by the breaking and shifting of subterranean rock as it releases strain that has accumulated over a long time. Initial mild shaking may strengthen and become extremely violent within seconds. Additional earthquakes, called aftershocks, may follow the initial earthquake. Most are smaller than the initial earthquake but larger magnitude aftershocks also occur. Earthquakes may cause household items to become dangerous projectiles; cause buildings to move off foundations or collapse, damage utilities, roads and structures such as bridges and dams, or cause fires and explosions. They may also trigger landslides, avalanches, and tsunamis"*

Do you know what to do?

Here is what to do in case of an earthquake:

1. During an earthquake
   In case of fire an alarm will sound. When you hear it:
   • Drop down onto your hands and knees so the earthquake doesn’t knock you down.
   • Cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself from falling debris.
   • If you are in danger from falling objects, and you can move safely, crawl for additional cover under a sturdy desk or table.
   • If no sturdy shelter is nearby, crawl away from windows, next to an interior wall. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as light fixtures or furniture.
   • Hold on to any sturdy covering so you can move with it until the shaking stops.
   • Stay where you are until the shaking stops. Do not run outside. Do not get in a doorway as this does not provide protection from falling or flying objects, and you may not be able to remain standing.
   • If getting safely to the floor will be difficult, actions before an earthquake to secure or remove items that can fall or become projectiles should be a priority to create spaces.
   • Identify and stay away from windows and objects that could fall on you. The Earthquake Country Alliance advises getting as low as possible to the floor. People who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices should lock their wheels, bend over, and remain seated until the shaking stops. Protect your head and neck with your arms, a pillow, a book, or whatever is available".*
2. After an earthquake
   
   • When the shaking stops, look around you, If the building is damaged and there is a clear path to safety, leave the building and go to an open space away from damaged areas.
   • If you are trapped, do not move about or kick up dust.
   • If you have a cell phone with you, use it to call or text for help.
   • Tap on a pipe or wall or use a whistle, if you have one, so that rescuers can locate you.
   • Once safe, monitor local news reports via battery operated radio, TV, social media, and cell phone text alerts for emergency information and instructions.
   • Check for injuries and provide assistance if you have training. Assist with rescues if you can do so safely.
   • If you are near the coast, learn about tsunamis in your area. If you are in an area that may have tsunamis, when the shaking stops, walk inland and to higher ground immediately. Monitor official reports for more information on the area’s tsunami evacuation plans.
   • Use extreme caution during post-disaster clean-up of buildings and around debris. Do not attempt to remove heavy debris by yourself. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves, and sturdy, thick-soled shoes during clean-up.
   • Be prepared to “Drop, Cover, and Hold on” in the likely event of aftershocks.
3. To get communication (in Portland)
   
   • In the event of a major earthquake the communications systems are unlikely to function. Cell phones, landlines, texting, and internet service are not resilient enough to endure the damage anticipated from an earthquake.
   • Therefore, after a major earthquake communication will be dificult, if not impossible.
   • Damaged roads and infrastructure will cut off many neighborhoods from emergency responders
   • A Basic Earthquake Emergency Communication Node or BEECN is a place to go in Portland after a major earthquake to ask for emergency assistance if phone service is down, or report severe damage or injury.
   • If you work in Swan Island the following locations are designated:
   • 1) Arbor Lodge Park (N Dekum Street and Greeley Ave)
   • 2) University of Portland (5000 N Willamette Blvd)

Do you know what to do?

Do you know what to do before, during and after an earthquake? Emergencies can happen anywhere - at home or at work - and it's important to prepare in case something unexpected happens. Being informed and prepared are important elements when driving towards a zero injury culture at DTNA.

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