During an Earthquake

If You Are Inside: Stay calm. If you are indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table and hang on to it, or stand under an inner doorway or in an inside corner of a room. Stay clear of windows, tall bookcases, and experimental setups. Do not rush outside; you could be injured by glass or pieces falling from buildings. Do not use the stairs or elevators while the building is shaking.

If You Are Outside: If you are outside, get into the open, away from buildings and overhead power lines. Watch out for falling rocks and other debris that could have been loosened by the quake.

If You Are Driving: If you are driving, stop in a safe open area away from buildings, trees, and overhead power lines. Stay inside your car. Do not stop or park close to the edge of a hill, because the road may give way and you and your car could slide down.

After an Earthquake

What to Do: Provide assistance, account for others in your area, but do not re-enter the building looking for them. Remember that aftershocks and subsequent earthquakes can be even more damaging than the initial shock.

Check for Injuries: Persons in your area may be injured or trapped. Summon or provide medical or rescue help if you can; otherwise, notify your Building Manager or call ext. 7911. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.

Check for Fires and Potential Hazards: Check for gas leaks. Shut off the main gas valve if a leak is suspected. DO NOT smoke or light matches. DO NOT operate electrical switches or appliances. If a gas leak exists, these actions could cause an explosion.

Check for any hazardous chemical spills and for the release of any radioactive materials. If you suspect such hazards, evacuate the area immediately, and then call extension 7911.

Evacuate the Building and Await Further Instructions

Leave the building/area and go directly to your specified assembly area. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE THE ELEVATORS. Await instructions from the Security, the Fire Department, or from a member of the Building Emergency Team.

Do not try to leave the Laboratory by car. Roads and access routes, if not blocked by landslides, must be kept clear for emergency vehicle use.