Community Safety

Division of Student Life

Emergency Procedures: Earthquake

In case of an earthquake, remain calm and quickly follow the steps outlined below.

During the quake…

If you are indoors, seek refuge in the corner of the room against the wall or under a desk or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves, and heavy equipment. If you are under a table or desk, hold on to the furniture so it can’t move away from you.

  • If you are outdoors, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles, and other structures. Caution: always avoid power or utility lines. They may be energized.
  • If you are in an automobile, stop in the safest place available, preferably away from power lines, street lights, and trees. Remain in the vehicle for the shelter it offers.

Immediately following the quake . . .

If you are indoors, carefully leave the building. Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for aftershocks. Move at least 500 feet away from buildings to avoid falling masonry, glass, or other hazards. Keep streets, fire lanes, hydrants, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and crews.

  • Remain calm. Assist anyone disabled or injured in exiting the building. Do not use elevators.
  • Do not use the telephone (except in cases of emergency dial 6666 for help). If there is an emergency and the phones are down, send a runner to the Community Safety office located at 28 West.
  • Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by a CSO.

After that…

  • Notify the Community Safety department (extension 6666) and facilities services (extension 7283) offices of damaged facilities. Note: gas leaks and power failures create special hazards. Please report them as soon as possible.
  • Assist emergency crews as necessary.
  • If a campus emergency command post has been established, please keep clear of it unless you have official business.