Earthquake

Download the MyShake app on your mobile device (developed by UC Berkeley researchers). MyShake is California’s earthquake early warning system.

During an Earthquake

Indoors:

  • DROP to the floor immediately.
  • Take COVER under sturdy furniture, or near an interior wall, if available, and protect your head with your elbows and arms.
  • HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
  • Immediately evacuate the building once the shaking stops.

Outdoors:

  • Move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
  • DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON to keep yourself stable and protect yourself from falling/thrown objects.
  • If you are driving, pull over in a clear area.

Other Tips:

  • Stay away from windows and other objects that can fall on you.
  • Do NOT run outside.
  • Do NOT stand in a doorway (it’s safer under sturdy furniture).
  • Do NOT use the elevators when evacuating a building.

After an Earthquake

  • Check yourself for injuries.
  • Don’t tie up phone lines if it’s a non life-threatening emergency; use text messages and social media.
  • Do NOT re-enter campus buildings until allowed by emergency personnel.
  • Be prepared for potential aftershocks and falling debris.

Signaling for Help

In the unlikely event that you are trapped by falling debris:

  • Don’t yell because you may inhale dust.
  • Tap on metal objects to get attention.
  • Use your mobile phone to call 911 (510-642-3333 on campus) to alert emergency personnel to your location.

  • Do NOT light a match due to potential gas leaks; use your cell phone’s flashlight if available.