|
FNSB
Emergency Operations Department
(907) 459-1481
Earthquake Safety Guide
Fairbanks North Star Borough is earthquake country. We can save lives, reduce
damage and lessen injuries, anxiety and confusion by
knowing what to do - and when.
BEFORE
an earthquake
At home
Create
and practice your emergency plan.
Establish
family reunion points.
Identify
an out-of-region contact person who can serve as
a message center.
At
Work
Know
your workplace disaster plan and your specific
responsibilities.
Make
sure everyone knows the location of emergency
supplies.
Organize
"response teams" to handle immediate
issues, including first aid, search-andrescue,
damage assessment and shutting off utilities.
General
Tips
Gather
and organize emergency supplies for your home,
vehicle and workplace.
Learn
first aid.
Emergency
Supplies
You need
several kits - for your home, office and vehicles - each
with the following items:
fire
extinguisher (ABC type)
first-aid
kit
flashlights
with extra batteries
sturdy
shoes (You may need to walk over broken glass.)
radio
(battery powered) and extra batteries (to listen
to emergency broadcasts KIAK-AM 970)
food
- a three-day supply (per person) of
nonperishable items
can
opener
three
gallons of water per person
chlorine
bleach (for disinfecting contaminated water)
outdoor
clothing
blankets,
sleeping bag
toilet
tissue, paper plates, plastic eating utensils
pre-moistened
cleaning wipes (water supplies may be
interrupted)
money,
especially coins or prepaid calling cards (pay
telephones are usually the first system restored)
paper
and pencils or pens
medications
and eyeglasses
For
your vehicle include items above plus these:
booster
cables
basic
tools, including flares
day
pack to carry items, if you must leave your
vehicle.
During
an earthquake Drop, Cover, and Hold
Inside
DROP below the
level of the furniture around you. Get under a
desk or table. Stay away from windows, bookcases,
file cabinets and other objects that could fall.
COVER your head
with your hands and stay that way until the
shaking stops.
HOLD onto the desk or table; if it moves,
move with it. HOLD YOUR POSITION - do NOT get up;
do NOT run.
Outside
Move
to a clear area, away from trees, signs or
buildings.
Remember:
DROP, COVER and HOLD.
In a
Vehicle
Reduce
speed -- do not slam on the brakes. Pull over to
the side of the road. Keep away from bridges,
overpasses, buildings, trees and other potential
hazards.
Stay
in your vehicle until all shaking stops. Tune
your radio to KIAK AM 970 for
emergency broadcasts.
After
an earthquake: SAFETY FIRST
Local
telephone lines may not work but long-distance
may still be functioning.
Put
telephones back on the hook to help reestablish
the telephone system.
Use
the telephone for emergencies only. Do not call
911 unless you need police, fire or emergency
medical services.
Know
where, when and how to shut off your gas/propane,
electric and water utilities.
Secure
your home hot-water heater and all tall and heavy
furniture. Move all heavy objects to lower
shelves.
Plan to
stay wherever you are for at least 5 to 6 hours. Bridges
and roads must be inspected for safety.
Check
for building damage.
Stay
clear of damaged structures, downed power lines,
and overhead hazards. Remember, aftershocks are
likely.
Clean
up spills of dangerous chemicals or flammable
liquids. Another option: Open windws and doors,
and mark the hazards clearly.
At
home, shut off electricity and water. Turn off
propane only if you hear hissing or smell the
odor of a leak.
Do
not use elevators.
Listen
to the radio (KIAK-AM 970) for
instructions from local authorities.
|
