Earthquake Procedure

This plan has been prepared to minimize injuries and damage in the event of an earthquake.  The plan provides guidance and instruction for both preparation and actions during and following an earthquake.  This procedure is applicable to all Lyon College students, staff, and faculty.

Preparation.

   1.  Anything that can move, break, or fall is a potential hazard.  Move heavy items from top shelves, secure hanging plants, remove unsecured mirrors, and keep blinds closed on windows.  Be aware of the possibility of falling glass.

   2.  Become familiar with all building exits since the exit normally used may be blocked.

   3.  Have blankets, hard soled shoes, and extra clothing on hand.

   4.  Keep a flashlight and extra batteries on hand.  A battery operated radio is another good item to have.

   5. Keep a stock of medications normally taken (insulin, etc).

During an earthquake.

   1.  Stay calm.  You must be able to help yourself and others.

   2.  Ride out the shaking.  You may hear a roaring or rumbling sound that gradually grows louder, and you may feel a rolling sensation that starts out gently and quickly grows violent, OR you may be jarred first by a violent jolt.  Later you will feel the shaking and find it difficult to stand.  The whole tremor will last only a short while.  Injuries are not caused by the earthquake itself, but mainly by falling objects.

   3.  If you are indoors, stay there.  Quickly get under a desk or table, stay clear of windows or any object that could fall.  Shield you head and face from falling glass and debris.  Watch for falling objects.  If the desk or table moves, move with it.  Furniture can provide air space if the building collapses.  If you cannot get under furniture, crouch in an inner corner or a doorway.  Do not run for another room.

   4.  If you are in a kitchen, turn off stoves and quickly take cover.

   5.  If you are outside, stay there.  If possible get into the open, away from buildings, trees, walls, and power lines.

   6.  If you are in an automobile, pull to the side of the road and stop.  Stay away from overpasses and power lines.  Stay in your car until the shaking stops.  Do not attempt to cross bridges or overpasses that may have been damaged in the quake.  Do not approach downed power lines.

After the Earthquake.

   1.  If you are inside, exit the building a soon as the shaking stops.  Do not use elevators.  Stay in groups as much as possible.  Move to the nearest safe area, such as a parking lot or open lawn.

   2.  Check for injuries.  Cover all injured with blankets and do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger.

   3.  Do not use the telephone.  Keep the lines clear for emergency traffic.

   4.  Because of debris and broken glass, wear hard soled shoes.

   5.  Listen to the radio for damage reports and other information.

   6.  Do not go sight seeing.  Keep the roads open for emergency vehicles.

   7.  Watch for fires.

   8.  Be prepared for after shocks.

If you are injured or disabled.

   1.  Do anything to get attention.

   2.  Be aware that your regular exit may be blocked

Long term instructions.

    1.  Cook only outdoors unless building have been cleared for use.  Use perishable food first, frozen food next and canned food last.

   2.  Keep food covered.

   3.  Do not drink water that has not been declared safe.

   4.  Do not waste anything.