Are you prepared for an earthquake while living in an apartment? The reality is, many people aren’t. Apartment buildings present unique challenges during seismic events. Heightened elevation, the potential for falling debris, difficulties with evacuation, and the reliance on shared building resources all contribute to increased risk. This article provides actionable steps apartment dwellers can take before, during, and after an earthquake to protect themselves, their families, and their property. Understanding what to do in an earthquake apartment can significantly increase your chances of staying safe.
Earthquake Preparedness for Apartment Residents
Being prepared before an earthquake strikes is crucial for apartment residents. It’s about more than just hoping for the best; it’s about proactively mitigating risks and creating a safer environment. Here’s how to get started:
Assess Your Apartment’s Risks
Begin by understanding the vulnerabilities specific to your apartment building and unit. Consider the building’s construction type and age. Older buildings may not have been built to the same seismic standards as newer constructions. Find out more about seismic standards in your area. Locate your apartment in relation to known fault lines. Many online resources can help you determine the proximity of faults to your location. Also, consider the height of your apartment floor; higher floors generally experience stronger shaking. Finally, carefully evaluate potential hazards within your apartment itself. Unsecured furniture, heavy objects placed on high shelves, and improperly stored hazardous materials all pose risks.
Create an Earthquake Emergency Kit
An essential component of earthquake preparedness is assembling a well-stocked emergency kit. This kit should contain enough supplies to sustain you and your household for at least three days. Prioritize these essentials: ample water (at least one gallon per person per day), a supply of non-perishable food items, a comprehensive first-aid kit, a reliable flashlight and a battery-powered radio, a whistle for signaling, dust masks for air quality, a wrench or pliers to shut off utilities if necessary, a can opener, local maps, a phone charger or power bank, sufficient cash, and sanitation supplies. For apartment dwellers, consider adding items specifically tailored to apartment living. For instance, walkie-talkies can be invaluable for communicating with neighbors if cell service becomes unreliable. Prepare for the possibility of needing to shelter in place for an extended duration and include any necessary medications.
Secure Your Apartment
Securing your living space is paramount in minimizing potential hazards during an earthquake. Bolt tall and heavy furniture, such as bookcases and dressers, securely to the walls using appropriate hardware. Secure televisions and computers to prevent them from toppling over. Use earthquake putty or museum wax to secure smaller decorative items to shelves and tabletops. Install latches on cabinets and drawers to prevent them from flying open during shaking. Relocate heavy items from high shelves to lower ones to reduce the risk of injury from falling objects.
Develop a Communication Plan
During and immediately after an earthquake, communication can be challenging. Develop a clear communication plan with your family and neighbors. Establish a designated out-of-state contact person who can serve as a central point of communication if local phone lines are disrupted. Discuss potential meeting places with family members and neighbors, both inside and outside the building. Learn how to send text messages, as they often have a higher chance of getting through when phone call services are overloaded.
Know Your Building’s Emergency Procedures
Many apartment buildings have specific emergency procedures in place. Contact your landlord or building management to obtain information on evacuation plans, emergency contact information, and any specific building policies related to earthquakes. Participate in any building-organized drills or training sessions to familiarize yourself with the procedures and understand your role in ensuring safety.
What to Do When the Shaking Starts
Knowing what to do during the actual shaking is critical. Reacting quickly and appropriately can drastically reduce your risk of injury.
Drop, Cover, and Hold On
The internationally recognized safety guideline during an earthquake is “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” Drop to the ground immediately. Seek cover under a sturdy table or desk. If no cover is available, move to an interior wall, away from windows and objects that could fall. Hold on tightly to the table or desk legs, or protect your head and neck with your arms. If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow. If you’re cooking, carefully turn off the stove and then follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedure. If you’re in the shower, drop to your knees and cover your head with your arms.
Stay Inside
Resist the urge to run outside during an earthquake. Most injuries occur when people try to enter or exit buildings while the shaking is happening. Falling debris, such as bricks, glass, and power lines, pose significant threats outside. Stay inside until the shaking completely stops.
Protect Your Head and Neck
Protect your head and neck from falling objects. Use pillows, blankets, or your arms to shield yourself. This is particularly important if you cannot find adequate cover under a table or desk.
If You’re in a Hallway
If you find yourself in a hallway during an earthquake, drop to the ground against an interior wall, cover your head and neck, and hold on. Avoid doorways unless they are specifically reinforced for earthquake protection; these are not common in residential buildings.
Things to Avoid
Avoid certain actions during an earthquake that can increase your risk. Never use elevators during an earthquake, as they can malfunction and trap you. Do not stand in doorways unless they are structurally reinforced for seismic activity. And as mentioned earlier, avoid running outside until the shaking has ceased.
After the Earthquake: Safety and Recovery in Your Apartment
The period immediately following an earthquake requires careful assessment and responsible actions to ensure your safety and begin the recovery process.
Check for Injuries
Immediately assess yourself and others for injuries. Administer first aid if needed and call for medical assistance if there are serious injuries. Be mindful of potential aftershocks that could cause further harm.
Assess Your Surroundings
Carefully evaluate your surroundings for potential hazards. Look for structural damage to your apartment and the building as a whole. Check for gas leaks by smelling for unusual odors and listening for hissing sounds. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the building immediately and contact the gas company from a safe distance. Check for any signs of water damage. Be continually aware of the possibility of aftershocks and be prepared to react accordingly.
Evacuate If Necessary
If there is significant structural damage to your apartment or building, or if you suspect a gas leak, evacuate the building promptly following your building’s established emergency plan. Use stairs, not elevators, and offer assistance to neighbors who may need help.
Communicate
Once safe, check in with your designated out-of-state contact person to let them know you are okay. Use text messages for communication whenever possible, as phone lines may be congested. Listen to a battery-powered radio for official updates and instructions from emergency responders.
Document Damage
Thoroughly document any damage to your apartment and personal belongings by taking photos and videos. This documentation will be essential when filing insurance claims.
Dealing with Landlords and Insurance
Report any damage to your landlord or building management as soon as possible. Understand your rights as a tenant in the aftermath of a disaster. Renters insurance can provide crucial financial protection in the event of an earthquake, covering damage to your personal property and potentially providing assistance with temporary housing. If you don’t have it, seriously consider getting it. Familiarize yourself with renter’s rights and resources available after a disaster.
Additional Considerations for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment community adds another layer of considerations to earthquake preparedness.
Community and Neighbors
Get to know your neighbors and foster a sense of community within your apartment building. Coordinate preparedness efforts and share resources. This can be invaluable during and after an earthquake when mutual support becomes critical.
Pets
Don’t forget to include your furry companions in your earthquake preparedness plans. Keep a pet carrier readily available and include pet food and water in your emergency kit. Make sure your pets have identification tags and are microchipped.
Accessibility
Consider the specific needs of residents with disabilities. Ensure that emergency plans address mobility challenges, visual impairments, and other accessibility concerns. Advocate for building-wide preparedness measures that accommodate all residents.
Conclusion
Earthquakes can be frightening events, but being prepared can significantly increase your safety and reduce anxiety. From creating an emergency kit to understanding your building’s emergency procedures, and knowing what to do earthquake apartment during and after the shaking, every step you take enhances your resilience. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Talk to your landlord and neighbors about earthquake preparedness, and share this article with other apartment residents. By taking proactive measures today, you can protect yourself and contribute to a safer community. Preparation empowers you to face the unexpected with confidence.
