What to do if an earthquake strikes: Take steps to prepare in an emergency Published April 21, 2015 By 354th Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness & Emergency Management Flight EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Earthquake Facts * Earthquakes strike suddenly, without warning, and can occur any time of the year; day or night. * On a yearly basis, 70-75 damaging earthquakes occur throughout the world. * Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass and falling objects. Most injuries occur when people are hit by flying objects when entering into or exiting from buildings. Danger Zones * Forty-one states and territories are at moderate risk of earthquakes. They occur most frequently west of the Rocky Mountains. * California experiences the most frequent damaging earthquakes; however, Alaska experiences the greatest number of large earthquakes and most are located in uninhabited areas. * The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits and along exterior walls. Actions to Consider BEFORE * Fasten shelves securely to walls. Store breakable items (bottled food, glass, china, etc.) in low, closed cabinets with latches. * Hang heavy items (pictures, mirrors, etc.) away from beds, couches and anywhere people sit. * Brace overhead light fixtures. * Install flexible pipe fittings to minimize breakage of gas and water lines. * Secure a water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and bolting it to the floor. * Store flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches on the bottom shelves. * Choose a safe place in every room (e.g., under a sturdy table or against an inside wall) where nothing can fall on people. DURING If Indoors * Drop, cover and hold on. Move only a few steps to a nearby safe place. * Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you're sure it is safe to exit. * In a high rise building, do not use the elevators. * Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall such as lighting fixtures or furniture. * If you are in bed, stay there. Hold on and protect your head with a pillow. If there is a heavy light fixture that could fall on you, move to the nearest safe place. * Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is strongly supported and load bearing. If Outdoors * Move into the open, away from buildings, streetlights and utility wires. * Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. If in a Vehicle * Stop as quickly and safely as possible, and then remain in the vehicle. * Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses and utility wires. * Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped, watching for road and bridge damage. If Trapped Under Debris * Do not light a match or lighter. * Do not move about or kick up dust. * Cover your mouth with fabric or clothing. * Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you or use a whistle if one is available. * Shout only as a last resort - shouting can cause inhalation of dangerous amounts of dust. AFTER * Provide first aid and CPR if trained to do so. * After-shocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks or even months after the quake. They can cause further damage to weakened buildings, so proceed with caution. * Be aware that some earthquakes are actually foreshocks - a larger earthquake might occur. * Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves. * Be aware of possible tsunamis if near the coast. * Pets' behavior may change dramatically after an earthquake. Normally quiet and friendly cats and dogs may become aggressive or defensive. Leash dogs and place them in a fenced yard. Did You Know... From 1975 to 1995 there were only four states that did not have any earthquakes. They were: Florida, Iowa, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. For more information contact the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness & Emergency Management flight or visit Air Force Be Ready page http://www.beready.af.mil/.