When Safe, Continue to Follow Your Disaster Preparedness Plan
DON’T HEAD TOWARDS THE COAST IF YOU HAVE HEARD THAT A TSUNAMI WARNING HAS BEEN ISSUED. You will put yourself in danger and make it more difficult for the people who need to evacuate.
Tsunamis
- Stay away from the coast until officials permit you to return. Remain on high ground. Waves from a tsunami may arrive for 12 hours or longer.
Earthquakes
- If your home isn’t damaged, you are safest there even if the power is off.
- Do not use open flames—candles, matches or lighters—until you are sure there are no gas leaks.
- Never use a camp stove, charcoal grill or gas generator indoors.
Be in communication
- Use your portable, car, or NOAA Weather Radio for information. Scan channels to find one that is on the air.
- Call your out-of-area contact and tell them your status, THEN STAY OFF
THE TELEPHONE. - Check on your neighbors.
If you cannot stay in your home…
- Use your radio to get information on shelter locations in your community.
- Find out what you are allowed to bring to the shelter—space is limited.
The first weeks after the earthquake
- Make sure your home is safe to occupy.
- If the gas was turned off, arrange for the gas company to inspect your lines and turn it back on.
- Have a professional inspect your fireplace or wood stove before use.
- Locate and/or replace any critical documents.
- Inventory and take pictures of any damage and contact your insurance agent to begin the claims process.
