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University of Washington › Facilities Services › UW Emergency Management
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After the Shaking Stops

Prepare Yourself And Your Family

After Shaking Stops, Check For Injuries And Damages Needing Immediate Attention

  • Protect yourself from further danger. First take care of your own situation.
  • Check for injuries, Take An Eh&S Training First Aid Class
    • Airway, Breathing, Circulation
    • Treat for Shock
    • Check for Spinal injury

As You Exit The Building Check For Damage

FIRE

  • If possible, put out small fires in your home or office immediately. Call 9-1-1, but don’t wait for the fire department.

GAS LEAKS

  • At home shut off the main gas valve only if you suspect a leak because of broken pipes or the odor or sound of leaking natural gas. Don’t turn it back on yourself - wait for the gas company to check for leaks. The phone book has detailed information on this topic.

DAMAGED ELECTRICAL WIRING

  • At home shut off power at the main breaker switch if there is any damage to your house wiring. Leave the power off until the damage is repaired.

DOWNED UTILITY LINES

  • If you see downed power lines, consider them energized and stay well away from them. Keep others away from them. Never touch downed power lines or any objects in contact with them.

FALLEN ITEMS

  • Beware of items tumbling off shelves when you open the doors of closets and cupboards.

SPILLS

  • Use extreme caution. Clean up any spilled medicines, drugs, or other non-toxic substances. Potentially harmful materials such as bleach, lye, garden chemicals, and gasoline or other petroleum products should be isolated or covered with an absorbent such as dirt or cat litter. When in doubt, leave your home or office.

DAMAGED MASONRY

  • Stay away from brick chimneys and brick walls. They may be weakened and could topple during aftershocks. Don’t use a fireplace with a damaged chimney. It could start a fire or let poisonous gases into your home.


ON CAMPUS

  • Go to designated Building Evacuation Assembly Point
  • Check in with your floor warden & report injuries or damages
  • Await further instructions

AT HOME

  • Protect yourself from further danger by putting on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes, and work gloves.
  • Listen to the radio for instructions.
  • Expect aftershocks. Each time you feel one, DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON!
  • Inspect your home for damage. Get everyone out if your home is unsafe.
  • Use the telephone only to report life-threatening emergencies.
  • Implement Disaster Plan.

Campus Information: