Student Handbook 2024-2025

Earthquake

  1. If you are inside a building:
    1. Stay where you are until the shaking stops. Do not run outside.
    2. Drop down onto your hands and knees so the earthquake doesn’t knock you down.
    3. Cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself from falling debris.
      • If you can move safely, crawl for additional cover under a sturdy desk or table.
      • Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as light fixtures or furniture.
    4. Hold on to any sturdy covering so you can move with it until the shaking stops.
  2. If getting safely to the floor to take cover won’t be possible:

    Identify an inside corner of the room away from windows and objects that could fall on you and get as low as possible to the floor.

    Wheelchairs and mobility devices: People who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices should lock their wheels and remain seated until the shaking stops. Protect your head and neck with your arms, a pillow, a book, or whatever is available.

  3. If you are outside when you feel the shaking:

    Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires then, “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” until the shaking stops.

  4. If you are in a moving vehicle when you feel the shaking:

    Stop as quickly and safely as possible and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped. Avoid roads, bridges, or ramps that the earthquake may have damaged.

  5. After an Earthquake

    When the shaking stops, look for a clear path to safety, leave the building and go to an open space away from damaged areas.

    1. If you are trapped, do not move about or kick up dust.
    2. If you have a cell phone with you, use it to call or text for help.
    3. Tap on a pipe/wall or make noise, so that rescuers can locate you.

      Once safe, be prepared to “Drop, Cover, and Hold on” in the likely event of aftershocks.