Drop, Cover and Hold
The major risk in the event of a strong earthquake is not the direct effect of the
quake itself, but the rush due to public panic and hysteria. College staff members should take charge and give instructions in a firm, calm voice
to reassure the nervous, thus helping to prevent hysteria or panic. During an earthquake,
remain calm and quickly follow the steps outlined below:
Indoors
When you feel an earthquake, drop under a desk or sturdy table. Stay away from windows, bookcases, file cabinets, heavy
mirrors, hanging plants, and other objects that could fall. Individuals in open hallways
on upper level floors (example: Rose Center) should move away from the railings and
against the wall. If possible, stay under cover until the shaking stops. Hold onto the desk or table. If it moves, move with it. After the quake is over, evacuate
the building and move personnel to a safe outdoor area until the building has been
inspected and declared safe by authorized personnel.
Help individuals with disabilities exit the building. Do not use elevators in case
of fire. Do not panic.
Outdoors
Move to a clear area, away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires
and poles.
Post-Earthquake
Damaged facilities should be reported to Campus Services at 2260 from a campus phone
or (360) 442-2260 from any other phone. NOTE: Gas leaks and power failures create special hazards.
Please refer to the section on Utility Failures for more information.
Do not return to an evacuated building until instructed to do so. Re-entry to the building will be permitted only when Campus
Services has received the “All Clear.”
