EARTHQUAKES

Earthquakes explained What are your chances of survival Earthquake Action Guide

OUR ACTIVE EARTH

Over a period of time, stresses build beneath the Earth's surface. From time to time, stress is released resulting in the sudden, and sometimes disastrous shaking we call an earthquake. It could last seconds, or minutes and come in a series over several days.

WHAT CAN HAPPEN?

An earthquake is often 'announced' by a loud noise like that of a train. Initial earth movements and swaying of structures caused by the earthquake could be followed some time later (after hours or days) by after-shocks, usually of decreasing severity.

INJURIES AND STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

The actual movement of the ground in an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most casualties result from falling objects and debris because the shocks can shake, damage or demolish buildings and other structures. Buildings do not automatically collapse in earthquakes. Some, such as timber-framed houses, may withstand shock very well. However, chimneys, parapets, ceiling plaster and light fixtures may fall. There could be flying glass from broken windows. Fallen power lines are another hazard, and could leave communities without power for days.

FIRE AND OTHER EFFECTS

Fires may be caused by broken chimneys and gas lines or by chemical spills, with the danger aggravated by broken water mains. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, ground displacement (faulting), subsidence and even huge ocean waves called tsunamis (seismic sea waves), each of which can cause great damage.

Very good, but survival isn't luck. You can survive an earthquake, and minimise its damage simply through awareness of potential hazards and by taking preparedness measures.

An earthquake will be over before you can do much about it. Most people are killed or injured as they attempt to move prematurely during the earthquake and are struck by falling or flying objects.

You chances of avoiding serious personal injury are extremely high if you remain calm and take cover as recommended above.

If you are properly prepared, any damage or injury you do sustain will be significantly minimised.

Make sure your home insurance policy covers earthquake damage.

Follow the advice in this pamphlet and by being properly prepared, you could become a potential resource for your community, not a potential casualty requiring help.

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS

In an emergency, in or near a city, phone '000' for Police, Ambulance or Fire services. You can also contact the nearest State/Territory Emergency Service (S/TES) unit, listed in your directory under 'E' (emergency), 'S' (state) or the state/territory name.

This information is produced by Emergency Management Australia in consultation with the Australian Seismological Centre, Geoscience, Canberra ACT and the Centre for Earthquake Research in Australia, Brisbane QLD.

Any part of Australia could experience an earthquake. Some areas have even suffered serious damage. So to reduce your vulnerability, read and act upon this information:

KNOW YOUR LOCAL RISK AND SAFETY STEPS

• Ask your State/Territory Emergency Service (SES) for a free pamphlet showing our earthquake hazard zones.
• Ask your neighbours, SES, council and insurance company whether earthquakes have ever occurred in your area and what damage resulted.
• Check that your insurance covers earthquake damage.
• If building, seek expert advice on the depth and type of foundations and construction to suit your soil conditions.
• Check and repair cracks in walls or gaps in mortar between bricks in existing buildings.
• Move chairs and beds clear of hanging items (eg ceiling fans, pot plants, paintings or mirrors).
• Brace free-standing bookshelves, water heaters, etc.
• Store breakables, heavy items and hazardous liquids (eg pesticides, cleaning fluids, paint) on bottom shelves.
• Secure cupboard doors with strong latches.
• Have an emergency kit which includes: a portable radio and torch with fresh batteries; containers of fresh water, canned food supplies; and a first aid kit and instruction manual.
• Plan together where your family will meet if separated.
• Know the safest areas during earthquakes (see below).
• List emergency phone numbers for police, SES, fire, ambulance and gas, power and water suppliers.

DURING THE EARTHQUAKE

• If indoors, stay there (clear of falling debris outside).
• Keep clear of windows, chimneys and overhead fittings.
• Shelter under (and hold) a door frame, table, bench, etc.
• In high rise buildings, stay clear of windows and outer walls. Get under a desk near a pillar or internal wall.
• Do not use elevators/lifts.
• In crowded areas or stores, do not rush for the doors. Move clear of overhead fittings and shelves.
• If outside, keep well clear of buildings, overhead structures, walls, bridges, power lines, trees etc.
• In a city street, shelter from falling debris under strong archways or doorways of buildings. Don't go under awnings or parapets as they may collapse.
• If in a vehicle, stop in an open area until the shaking stops.
• Beware of fallen power lines; damaged roads, including overpasses and bridges; and landslides.
• Listen to your car radio for warnings before moving.

AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

• Watch for hazards and tend to injuries
• Turn off electricity, gas, water. Do not light matches and check for gas or fuel leaks and damaged wiring.
• Check for injuries. Apply first aid. Do not move the seriously injured unless in immediate danger.
• Check for broken water, sewerage or electrical mains.
• Do not use telephone immediately (to avoid congestion) unless there is a serious injury or a fire etc.
• Check for cracks/damage in roof, walls, chimneys etc.
• Expect aftershocks. Evacuate if the building is damaged.
• Listen to the local radio and heed warnings or advice on damage, service disruptions and evacuation.
• Do not waste food and water as supplies may be interrupted.
• Collect emergency water from heaters, ice cubes, toilet tanks and canned foods.
• Avoid driving unless for emergency (keep streets free).
• Do not go sight-seeing or enter damaged buildings.
• Stay calm and help others if possible.