Post-quake guidelines

What to do after an earthquake

• Expect aftershocks and remember to drop, cover and hold.
• Do not run outside. It is frightening to stay in a building immediately after an earthquake, but it is much safer than going outside. An earthquake is not like a fire. You do not have to evacuate a building straight away unless it is showing obvious signs of distress or you are in a tsunami evacuation zone.
• Look after yourself and get first aid if necessary. Help others if you can.
• Assess your home or workplace for damage. If the building appears unsafe get everyone out. Use the stairs, not an elevator and when outside, watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines. Stay out of damaged areas.
• Turn off water, electricity and gas if advised to. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window, get everyone out quickly and turn off the gas if you can.
• If you see sparks, broken wires or evidence of electrical system damage, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box if it is safe to do so.
• Look for and extinguish small fires if it is safe to do so. Fire is a significant hazard following earthquakes.
• If you can, put on protective clothing that covers your arms and legs, and sturdy footwear. This is to protect yourself from injury by broken objects.
• If you are in a store, unfamiliar commercial building or on public transport, follow the instructions of those in charge.
• Listen to the radio for updated emergency information and instructions.
• Do not overload phone lines with non-emergency calls. Use social media (if online) or text messages, or a walkie-talkie or Meshtastic node instead of calling to keep phone lines clear for emergency calls.
• Help people who require special assistance – infants, elderly people, those without transportation, families who may need additional help, people with disabilities and the people who care for them.
• Keep control of your pets. Protect them from hazards and protect other people from your animals.
• Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

Pipes and plumbing after an earthquake

Image from the Wellington Water (Aotearoa New Zealand) body detailing why it's important not to flush, and how to manage waste.

Linkdump

https://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-rural-support/adverse-events/food-safety-in-natural-disasters-and-emergencies/