Before, during and after

A short guide compiled from AFAD and FEMA advice. Once opened, this page can be read without an internet connection.

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Before an earthquake

Secure furniture that can topple, such as wardrobes, bookcases and appliances, to the wall; keep heavy items on low shelves.
Keep heavy objects away from beds and keep exits clear.
Make sure everyone at home knows where the gas valve, water valve and fuse box are.
Pack an emergency kit and keep it near the exit.
Make a family emergency plan with meeting points and an out-of-town contact.
Find the assembly area for your neighbourhood.
Keep copies of important documents in a waterproof pouch.
Insure your home with the compulsory earthquake insurance (DASK).
Practise Drop, Cover and Hold On a few times a year.

Indoors: Drop, Cover and Hold On. Get under a sturdy table, protect your head and neck, and hold on until the shaking stops.
With no table nearby, crouch against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Stay away from windows and glass.
Do not run for the stairs or the exit, do not jump from balconies or windows, and do not use lifts.
In a wheelchair, lock the wheels and protect your head and neck.
Outdoors, move away from buildings, walls, trees, poles and power lines.
Driving, pull over without blocking the road and stay in the car until the shaking stops. Do not stop on or under bridges or near power lines.
On the coast, move away from the shore once the shaking stops.

Check that you are safe first, then help the people around you.
If you smell gas, close the valve, open windows and doors and leave at once. Do not light matches or lighters or touch light switches. Call 187 from a safe place.
Do not enter damaged buildings; aftershocks can make the damage worse.
Take your kit and go to your meeting point or assembly area.
Use the phone only for emergencies; text your family.
Follow official announcements (AFAD, radio) and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.
Drop, Cover and Hold On again during aftershocks.

Stay calm and save your energy; avoid moves that put your life at risk.
Cover your mouth and nose with cloth to avoid breathing dust.
Tap on a pipe or wall or use a whistle so rescuers can find you; shouting tires you quickly, so use it as a last resort.
If you have a light, signal SOS.