What to do after an earthquake

Useful numbers and links:

 

FMG: 0800 366 466

Earthquake Commission: 0800 DAMAGE (0800 326 243), http://www.eqc.govt.nz/

Civil Defence: http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/

Environment Canterbury: http://canterburyearthquake.org.nz/

Government Helpline: 0800 779 997

 

What to do in the event of an earthquake

• Remain calm
• Check for danger (e.g. fires, gas leaks, damage to buildings)
• Stay where you are unless it is unsafe, or you are officially told to leave
• If necessary to keep safe, turn off electricity, gas or water mains
• Be prepared to move into a safer part of your building
• Seek help from those around you, and offer to help them too
• Don't use the telephone except to report immediate emergencies
• Listen to local radio stations for official warnings and advice

Evacuation

If you are officially told to evacuate, take with you:

• Your survival kit and important documents.
• Warm clothes and sturdy shoes.
• Radio and torch.

If it is unsafe to stay where you are, arrange shelter for yourself. Try to stay with neighbours, friends, or family.

No water?

First use your stored water, then your water cylinder and toilet cistern water (if no chemicals added). Boil all other water for five minutes before drinking. Use hand sanitiser instead of water to cleanse hands.

No electricity or gas?

Use emergency lighting, heating and cooking facilities such as torches, candles (ensure no gas leaks first), portable gas heaters, BBQ, camping stove, etc.

No sewerage?

Use a plastic bag in a bucket, or in the toilet bowl or make a temporary toilet outdoors. Use hand sanitiser to cleanse hands.

No phones?

Seek assistance of neighbours. If it is safe, go to your nearest Emergency Services base.

Recovery - where to start

• Act safely to prevent any more damage to your building.
• Try to make the buildings safe and weatherproof.
• Take pictures of the damage (building and contents) for insurance claims.
• Keep all damaged items for inspection.
• Get essential services repaired e.g. water, electricity, gas, sewerage - keep copies of your bills.
• Make a list of any perishables you have to dispose of.
• Don't start non-essential repairs without your insurance company's approval.

For more helpful information, click here to visit the Civil Defence Get Thru website.