Earthquake / Tsunami (coastal facilities)

Earthquake

If a major earthquake were to occur, the UO needs to be prepared to provide its own resources for an uncertain period of time. It is always a good idea to maintain certain supplies in your office (see “Emergency Planning & Preparation Guidelines” at the end of this manual for details). The biggest dangers during an earthquake are falling debris (building materials and heavy falling objects such as file cabinets and book cases), breaking glass, and fires (from gas lines, electrical short circuits, or other causes).

Inside a Building

  1. Stay inside until the shaking stops.
  2. Take cover underneath a sturdy desk or table protecting your head and neck.
  3. Stay away from windows or objects which could fall on you. Expect fire alarm and sprinkler systems to activate.
  4. Do not use elevators.

Outdoors

  1. Move to an open area away from trees, buildings, walls, and utility poles/lines. Do not enter a building.
  2. Drop to your knees and get into a fetal position, close your eyes and cross your arms over the back of your neck for protection. Stay in this position until the shaking stops.
  3. If in a moving vehicle pull to the side of the road as quickly as possible but keep away from overhead hazards such as buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. Stay in the vehicle. Once the shaking has stopped, proceed with caution. Avoid bridges or ramps that might have been damaged by the quake.

After Shaking Stops

  1. Evacuate the building taking your keys, wallet, purse, and emergency supplies. Refer to evacuation procedures.
  2. Watch for persons who are injured, trapped or need assistance. Provide assistance in evacuating if possible. Do not move seriously injured persons.
  3. Notify:
    • 911 for emergencies.
    • DPS at 541-346-6666 to report the situation.
  4. Go to your designated Evacuation Assembly Point. Report any injured or trapped persons.
  5. Tune portable radios to KWVA 88.1 FM or KWAX 91.1 FM for local updates, and follow instructions given.
  6. DPS will provide instructions for additional action by means of door-to-door alerting, police vehicle loud speakers, fire alarms, or bull-horns.
  7. Do not re-enter any building until declared safe by emergency authorities.
  8. Be prepared for after shocks.

 

Tsunamis

Tsunamis, also known as seismic sea waves, are most common along the Pacific coast. Tsunamis are enormous waves caused by an underground disturbance such as an earthquake.

Response

  • Familiarize yourself with your community tsunami warning, response and evacuation plans if you live or work in a tsunami hazard area.
  • Identify the quickest tsunami evacuation route from your workplace or home.
  • Be prepared to evacuate inland to higher ground quickly. Do not return to the flooded and damaged areas until officials say it is safe to do so.

 

Stay informed

Check local radio, TV, and the on-line NOAA West Coast / Alaska Tsunami Warning Center for official news and instructions as they become available.

The Oregon Emergency Management publication Living on Shaky Ground provides more information on earthquake risks and how to survive earthquakes and tsunamis in Oregon.