Earthquake

During an earthquake, remain CALM and QUICKLY follow the steps outlined below:

1. If INDOORS, seek refuge in a doorway or under a desk or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves and heavy equipment. "DUCK, COVER AND HOLD!"
2. If OUTDOORS, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and other structures. CAUTION: Always avoid power or utility lines, as they may be energized. Know your assembly points.
3. If in an AUTOMOBILE, stop in the safest place available, preferably away from power lines and trees. Stop as quickly as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle for the shelter it offers.
4. After the initial shock, evaluate the situation and, if emergency help is necessary, call Public Safety at 540-568-6911; be prepared for aftershocks.
5. Damaged facilities should be reported to Facilities Management at 540-568-6101/6102 or Public Safety at 540-568-6911
6. DO NOT CALL Public Safety for a non-emergency. Public safety must keep lines clear to properly handle emergency communications. Numerous non-emergency calls can overload the system and significantly delay emergency responses.
7. If necessary, or when directed to do so, ACTIVATE the building alarm. PRECAUTION: ALSO report the emergency by telephone. In many cases it may not be necessary to evacuate and evacuation puts you at greater risk of injury from falling debris.
8. DO NOT USE ELEVATORS.
9. If the building evacuation alarm is sounded; walk to the nearest marked exit and ask others to do the same.
10. ASSIST THE HANDICAPPED IN EXITING THE BUILDING! Remember that the elevators are reserved for handicapped persons. DO NOT USE ELEVATORS. Do not panic. Remain calm.
11. Once outside, move to a clear area that is at least 500 feet away from the affected building(s). Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants and walkways clear from emergency vehicles and crews. Know your area assembly points.
12. If requested, assist emergency crews as necessary.
13. A Campus Emergency Command Post may be set up near the disaster site. Keep clear of the Command Post unless you have official business.
14. DO NOT RETURN TO AN EVACUATED BUILDING unless permitted to do so by a University official.
15. If caught under debris, DO NOT light a match, move about or kick up dust. Cover your mouth if possible. Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can find you. Avoid yelling if possible. Yelling can cause you to breath in dangerous amounts of dust
16. IMPORTANT: After any evacuation, report to your designated campus area assembly point. Stay there until an accurate head count is taken. The Building Manager or Head Resident will take attendance and assist in the accounting for all building occupants.

Related Links http://www.fema.gov/hazard/earthquake/eq_during.shtm
http://www.vaemergency.com/