EARTHQUAKES

 

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The University of Washington located in the Pacific Northwest frequently experiences earthquakes, some of which can be damaging. Here are emergency procedures in the event of an earthquake:

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h During an Earthquake:

1. Remember to stay calm and take quick action.

2. Stay where you are located. Do not run outside while quake is in progress due to danger from falling debris.

3. Take cover under a desk or table away from windows. Place your head between your knees to protect your head and neck. Stay in the most innermost corner of the room away from windows.

4. DO NOT use elevators during a quake!

 

h If you are Outside:

1. Move as far as possible from buildings to avoid broken glass and falling objects.

2. Move away from utility poles, power lines, and trees.

 

h After an Earthquake:

1. Be aware of the possibilities of aftershocks. Do not return to your work area unless directed.

2. Check for fires and fire hazards. Do not use elavators unless they have been checked for safety.

3. Give first-aid to the injured. Take work area first aid kits with you when evacuation is necessary.

4. Remember to never move a seriously injured person unless he or she is in danger of further injury.

5. Notify management and ermegency personnel of anything which you believe might be brought to their immediate attention.

6. Be prepared to evacuate and follow management and emergency personnel direction.

 

h Other Helpful Links:

1. UW Seismology Lab Website: http://www.geophys.washington.edu/SEIS/

2. Earthquake Prepared: http://www.earthquakeprepared.com

3. Fact Sheet-Earthquakes: http://www.fema.gov/library/quakef.htm

h Academic Aftershocks Video:

Administrators, faculty and staff members, and emergency response professionals discuss the Northridge earthquake's affect on the California State University, Northridge campus. Developed by the California Office of Emergency Services and California State University, Hayward, the video examines the crucial issues on the campus in the hours, days, and weeks following the disaster: securing the campus; emergency communications; obtaining recovery materials and equipment; hazardous material incidents; assessing structural safety; acquiring temporary classroom and administration facilities; and re-opening the campus. The tape also addresses the need for updated emergency plans, training for faculty and staff, and frequent and regular campus exercises. 1/2 -inch format. 1995. 46 minutes. (Available for purchase from the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), [510] 464-7900.)

Click here to view the video stream.
(See Help/Viewing Requirements)

 

VOLCANOS

If you live near a known volcano, active or dormant, be prepared to follow instructions from your local emergency officials. Some hazards accompanying volcanos include: Mudflows and flash floods, landslides and rockfalls, earthquakes, ashfall and acid rain, and tsunamis. For more information on volcano safety, click on the following websites.

1. American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/keepsafe/readyvolcano.html

2. USGS - What to do if a volcano erupts: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Hazards/Safety/what_to_do.html