What to do in an emergency

EARTHQUAKE

Always remember to Drop, Cover and Hold.

• Identify a safe space near you – a few steps away at most – and DROP to your hands and knees.
• COVER your entire body, if possible, under a sturdy object or structure such as a desk, table or interior wall (away from windows and tall furniture), and avoid doorways. Use your arms and hands to protect your head and neck, even under shelter.
• HOLD your position and/or shelter until the shaking stops.

The same process applies if you are outside, near structures, trees or anything that could fall on you and cause harm.

However, if you are in bed, stay there and cover yourself with blankets and sheets and a pillow for your head and neck.

If you are in a vehicle, the driver should pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Then, apply the brakes, stay seated with your belt fastened, and wait until the shaking stops. Once it has stopped, you should drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps.

WHAT TO DO AFTER

First and foremost, you should remain calm and check others nearby for injuries and – if necessary – get first aid.

You should swiftly look for any damages and hazards around you and adapt accordingly. Do not rush outside or towards damaged or hazardous areas immediately after the shaking stops.

Check for small fires and extinguish them if possible and safe. Or if you smell gas or hear a potential leak, turn off the gas and, if possible, open a window and get out immediately.

If you are on public transport or in a commercial building or store, listen carefully and follow the instructions of those in charge; emergency procedures will likely be in place.

Always be aware of your surroundings so you are ready to Drop, Cover and Hold for aftershocks. These can happen just minutes after the initial shock.

Finally, use social media or text messages to contact loved ones, in order to keep phone lines clear for emergency services, and stay informed via radio or the internet.

Volcanic eruption

Listen to the radio for advice and instructions from NZ Civil Defence.

If possible, find shelter in a vehicle or building. To protect yourself from volcanic ashfall, wear a protective mask or cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief, cloth, shirt, or something similar.

Stay indoors and close all doors and windows to restrict the entry of volcanic ash, which is a health hazard.

Use social media and texting to contact friends and family. This will help keep the phone lines clear for emergency calls.

If you must go outside, wear protective gear such as masks and goggles and keep your skin covered. Glasses are fine but do not wear contact lenses because they cause corneal abrasions.

If you are a resident, disconnect drain pipes from gutters and your water tank (if your system collects rainwater).

WHAT TO DO AFTER

Avoid restricted and hazardous areas and stay tuned to local broadcasts and websites for advice and instructions.

Stay indoors, unless instructed otherwise, and wait until the all-clear by authorities before you go outside. Keep animals indoors and keep them as clean as possible so they don’t ingest ash.

If you are a resident, and only when it is safe to go outside, clear your gutters and roof of ash to prevent it from collapsing.

Do not drive during heavy ashfall. It can clog the engine and damage your vehicle.

When cleaning, wear eye protection, a mask, and moisten the ash with a damp cloth or sprinkler – this reduces the chances of getting ash particles in your eyes or respiratory system.