EARTHQUAKE

Because earthquakes can strike without warning, the immediate need is to protect lives by taking the best available cover. All other actions must wait until the tremors subside. If persons are protected from falling objects, the rolling motion of the earth may be frightening but may not be dangerous.

If inside:

• Initiate Drop, Cover and Hold
• If no cover is available, get against inside doorway or crouch against inside wall and cover head; stay away from outside walls, windows or other expanses of glass, potential falling objects
• Leave doors open to minimize jamming if the building shifts 
• Do not attempt to run through building or outside due to risk of falling objects
• After initial shock, prepare for possible aftershock, then initiate evacuation and standard student accounting (avoid all hazards, i.e., electrical wires, broken glass, etc.) 

If outside:

• Move quickly away from building and overhead electrical wires
• Lie flat, face down, and wait for shocks to subside
• Some schools use "green card" to indicate when class is all accounted for, and use "red card" to indicate if a child is missing or assistance is needed with your group
• Do not attempt to enter building until authorized to do so
• Do not touch fallen wires 
• Be alert for instructions from principal or first responders

Assembly Areas:

• Earthquake safe areas will be away from the building and overhead power lines
• Keep everyone away from underground gas and sewer lines (which should be marked prior) 
• Call 911, District Support Team  
• In the event of aftershocks, students are to be encouraged to remain calm and stay sitting close to the ground
• Administer emergency first aid as needed 
• Do not re-enter building until given permission from emergency personnel
• Document actions and complete incident reports