Emergency Response - Earthquake

Background Information

While Ohio has not historically been a state prone to severe earthquake activity, the National Earthquake Information Center does note that the largest earthquake in Ohio was centered in Shelby County. That earthquake, one of several in the 1930s, caused moderate damage to buildings and affected water, oil, and gas wells. Therefore, safety during an earthquake largely involves avoiding falling objects or power lines, and avoiding the use of cell phones or radio equipment that might spark fires from ruptured gas lines.

Were a major earthquake to occur, the university must also be prepared to provide its own resources for an indefinite period of time. It is always a good idea to maintain certain supplies in your office.

Action Steps

If Inside:

  • Stay inside—do not run outside.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • Take cover beneath a desk or table.
  • Protect your head and neck.
  • Stay away from windows and objects that could fall.

 

If Outside:

  • Get away from trees, buildings, walls, and power lines.
  • Assume a fetal position on the ground, with eyes closed, and arms crossed over back of your neck for protection.
  • Stay in a fetal position until shaking stops.

After shaking stops:

  • Do not use regular or cellular phones except to call 911 or 593-1911 (Ohio University Police Department) to report serious injuries.
  • Assist and accompany persons with disabilities.
  • Use battery-powered radios to follow instructions given by the Emergency Alert System.
  • Obey instructions/audio announcements by Ohio University Police.
  • Evacuate if instructed to do so.
  • Do not enter any building that is deemed or looks unsafe.