Earthquakes can result in many types of emergencies. There is initial danger from the shaking that can throw you to the ground or result in injury from falling objects. Then there is potential for building collapse, landslide, flood, fire and electrocution.

After an earthquake, an emergency kit will help you be self-sufficient if the power is out, the supply chain is disrupted, or you can’t get to help.

Before an earthquake

• Follow the National Building Code for structural stability to reduce damage to buildings.
• Secure fuel-burning appliances so they don’t topple and start a fire.
• Secure furniture and household objects that can fall or break, causing injury.
• Know how to turn off water, electricity and propane in case of damaged lines.

During an earthquake

During most earthquakes, you will reduce your chance of injury if you:

1. drop
2. cover; and
3. hold on.

Visit ShakeOut for guides and videos for a variety of situations.

Drop

Drop where you are onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down by shaking and reduces your chance of being hit by falling or flying objects.

Cover

Cover your head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath for shelter.

If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall. Stay on your knees and bend over to protect vital organs.

Hold on

Wait until the shaking stops. If you're under shelter, hold on to it with one hand. If your shelter can move, be ready to shift with it.

If you have no shelter, hold on to your head and neck with both arms and hands.

If you have a recliner or bed

Cover your head and neck with your arms or a pillow until the shaking stops.

If you use a cane

You can sit on a chair or bed an cover your head and neck with both hands, or

1. drop;
2. cover; and
3. hold on.

Keep your cane near you so it can be used when the shaking stops.

If you use a walker or a wheelchair

1. Lock your wheels.
2. Carefully get as low as possible.
3. Bend over and cover your head and neck with your arms, a book, or a pillow.
4. Hold on until the shaking stops.

After an earthquake

• Be prepared for aftershocks.
• Check local emergency information channels for updates and instructions.
• Check on your family members. Tend to injuries.
• Be careful of debris and broken glass. Put on sturdy shoes and protective clothing to prevent injury.
• Check your location for structural damage and other hazards. Do not enter or stay in a building you think is unsafe.
• Do not turn on lights or use open flame until you are sure there are no fuel leaks or spilled flammable liquids.
• Check and shut off utilities if necessary.
• Shut off water at the main valve. This will conserve the water already in your home.
• Communicate, if possible, with your emergency contacts. A text is easier on the telecommunication system than phone calls.
• If it is safe to do so, help your neighbours.

Visit GetPrepared.ca for more information on earthquake preparedness and recovery.