What to Do in Case of an Earthquake

Before

  • Make sure shelves are secure and designed with latching doors or raised edges to prevent objects from falling.
  • Top-heavy furniture and equipment must be bolted to walls or floor.
  • Store breakables and heavy objects on lower shelves. Overhead lights, heavy artwork, and mirrors need to be anchored.
  • Email fixit@econ.berkeley.edu for assistance on these items.

During

  • If you are in a building:
    • Stay indoors until the shaking stops.
    • Move away from windows that may break and furniture or large objects that could fall over.
    • Take cover under a table, bench or desk and hold on, or go to an interior wall or hallway.
    • Do not try to leave until the shaking is over.
  • If outdoors:
    • Stay outdoors.
    • Move to an open area away from trees, buildings, utility poles and lines, or signs.
  • If in a vehicle:
    • Pull to the side of the road as safely as possible.
    • Keep away from overhead hazards such as trees, buildings, utility poles and lines, signs, and bridges/overpasses.
    • Stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops.
  • If you're in a theater or auditorium:
    • Crouch down between the rows of seats.
    • Cover your head and neck with hands and arms.
    • Do not try to leave until the shaking is over.

After

  • After the shaking stops, evacuate cautiously, taking your belongings and any emergency supplies. Do NOT re-enter the building until it has been inspected and declared safe by emergency responders.
  • On your way out, look for signs of building damage or for persons who are injured or trapped. Watch for falling objects as you leave the building.
  • Go to your building's Emergency Assembly Area; tell those in charge there that you are out of the building. Report injured or trapped persons and any signs of building damage you observed.
  • Turn on a battery-powered or vehicle radio for information.
  • Do not use the phone for local calls except emergencies, immediately following the earthquake. An overloaded phone system will delay the delivery of emergency assistance to those in need.