After an earthquake, follow these key steps to ensure safety and manage the situation effectively:

• Expect aftershocks and be prepared to drop, cover, and hold on if they occur, as aftershocks can cause additional damage

• Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid if necessary. Help those who need special assistance, such as infants, elderly, disabled persons, and pets

• Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe, evacuate immediately using stairs, not elevators. Stay clear of damaged buildings and areas with hazards like fallen power lines or gas leaks

• Look for and extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so, since fires are a common hazard after earthquakes

• Listen to local news and emergency broadcasts via battery-operated or hand-crank radios for updates and instructions. Avoid overloading phone lines; use phones only for emergency calls

• Be cautious when moving around : open cabinets carefully as items may have shifted, wear protective clothing such as long pants, long sleeves, sturdy shoes, and gloves when cleaning debris

• Check utilities : inspect for gas leaks (smell or hissing sounds), water line damage, and electrical system damage. If you detect gas leaks, open windows, leave the building, and turn off gas at the main valve if possible. Do not turn gas back on yourself; wait for professionals

• Keep pets confined and safe , ensuring they have food, water, and a secure place to rest

• Stay out of damaged areas and wait for official clearance before returning home if you were away during the quake

• Be cautious when driving ; roads may be blocked or unsafe, and traffic lights may be out

• Prepare for ongoing hazards such as tsunamis if you live in coastal areas, landslides, or further aftershocks

• Review and restock your emergency supplies and family emergency plan once you are safe

Following these steps helps protect you and those around you while facilitating effective recovery after an earthquake. These guidelines are compiled from authoritative sources including Civil Defence New Zealand, U.S. Ready.gov, and the Canadian Red Cross