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CHECKLIST (things you should have and do)
- A torch with fresh batteries (next to
your bed).
- A battery-operated radio and spare batteries.
- A first aid kit and book. Make sure your
family knows where they're kept.
- List these phone numbers on the inside
front cover of you phone book or on a card: Police, Fire, Ambulance,
State Emergency Service, Doctor, Water, and Electricity, Gas.
- Decide how and where your family will re-unite
if separated.
- Know the safe areas in each room: under
sturdy tables, desks, bed or against in sidewalls, in a corner.
- Know the danger spots: windows, mirrors,
hanging objects, chimneys fireplaces and tall-unsecured furniture.
- Know how and where to turn off your electricity,
gas, water and central heating oil.
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IN AN EARTHQUAKE ZONE
If you live in an earthquake-prone area, also do
the following:
- Check chimneys, roofs, walls, foundations
for stability (making sure the house is bolted to the foundations.
- Secure water heater and appliances that
could move enough to rupture utilities lines
- Keep breakables and heavy objects on bottom
shelves.
- Secure heavy, tall furniture that could
topple.
- Secure hanging plants, mirrors and heavy
picture frames (especially over beds).
- Put latches on cupboard doors to keep them
closed during shaking.
- Keep flammable or hazardous liquids such
as paints, pesticides and cleaning products secured on bottom shelves
or cupboards floors.
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IF INDOORS
- If you are indoors stay there. You could
be hit by falling debris outside.
- Take cover under an internal doorframe,
table, bench or bed and hold onto it.
- Keep away from windows, chimneys and overhead
fittings.
- If in a high riser building, stay away
from windows and outer walls. Get under and hold on to a desk near a
pillar or internal wall. Do not use elevators.
- If in a crowd public place or store, do
not rush for the doors. Move away from overhead fittings or shelves
containing heavy objects.
IF OUTDOORS
- If outside, keep well clear of buildings,
walls, power lines, trees, etc.
- In a city street, of tall buildings, seek
refuge under strong archways or doorways of buildings to avoid falling
debris. Don't stand under awnings or parapets as they may collapse.
- If you are in a vehicle, pull off the
road in a clear area until the earthquake is over. Beware of 'downed'
power lines and road damage, including overpasses and bridges. Listen
to your car radio for information before moving.
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INJURIES
- Check for injuries. Apply first aid. Do
not move the seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger.
- Do not use the telephone immediately, unless
there is a serious injury or fire (otherwise lines may become overloaded).
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WATCH FOR HAZARDS
- Turn off domestic stoves and heaters.
- Do not light matches until you have checked
for gas or fuel leaks
- Check for water leaks, broken electrical
wiring or sewerage lines. If there is damage, turn utility off at source.
- Check building for cracks and damage, include
roof, chimneys and foundation.
- Check food and water supplies. Do not
wast these as fresh supplies may have been interrupted. Emergency water
may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, toile tanks and
canned foods.
- Turn on your portable radio for instructions
and news reports. Cooperate fully with emergency personnel.
- Do not use you vehicle unless there is
an emergency (keeping the street clear for emergency vehicles).
- Do not go sightseeing or enter damage
buildings.
- Be prepared for aftershocks. Evacuate if
necessary.
- Stay calm and lend a hand to others if
possible.
Brought to you by your State/Territory Emergency
Service. Developed, sponsored and published by Emergency Management Australia.
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