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Crime & Safety

How To Stay Safe In An Aftershock

The Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania's earthquake safety guidelines.

The Red Cross of Southeastern Pennsylvania said that while they have had no requests for assistance after , there is still a possibility of aftershock.

In the instance of an aftershock, the Red Cross makes the following recommendations:

Remain indoors during an earthquake. You should get under a sturdy piece of furniture to shield you from falling debris.

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Mobile homes and homes not attached to their foundations are at particular risk during an earthquake. Buildings with foundations resting on landfill and other unstable soils are at increased risk of damage.

Doorways are no stronger than any other part of the structure.

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If you are inside when the shaking starts

  • Drop, cover and hold on. Move as little as possible.
  • If you are in bed, stay there, curl up and hold on. Protect your head with a pillow.
  • Stay away from windows to avoid being injured by shattered glass.
  • Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit.
  • If you must leave the building after the shaking stops, use stairs rather than an elevator in case there are aftershocks, power outages or other damage.
  • Be aware that fire alarms and sprinkler systems frequently go off in buildings during an earthquake, even if there is no fire.

If you are outside when the shaking starts

  • Find a clear spot and drop to the ground.
  • Stay there until the shaking stops (away from buildings, power lines, trees, streetlights).
  • If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. Then, drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps that may have been damaged.
  • If a power line falls on your vehicle, do not get out. Wait for assistance.
  • If you are in a mountainous area or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rocks and other debris. Landslides are often triggered by earthquakes.
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