There is no way of knowing when an earthquake will strike. Québec does have a history of seismic activity, but major earthquakes are rare.
You can take action now to protect you and your family from earthquake hazards.
If an Earthquake Occurs
- Remain calm.
- Listen to safety procedures on the radio.
- Use the telephone only in an emergency.
Preparing for an Earthquake
- Gather together information and educate family members about what they can do at home or school when an earthquake strikes.
- Agree together on a meeting place if family members become separated in an earthquake.
- Have your emergency kit ready. Make sure you include candles and matches.
- Remove heavy objects from shelves to prevent them from falling on someone.
- If you have natural gas applicances in your home or if appliances are connected to an outdoor propane tank, make sure all connections are properly secured and that no lines can break.
During an Earthquake
If you're inside
- Remain in the building. Do not go outdoors.
- Stay away from windows, mirrors, glass partitions, tall book shelves, fireplaces and !!! lighting fixtures.
- Take cover under a piece of heavy furniture and hold on to it. Otherwise, stand against a wall and use your hands to protect your head and neck.
- If you're in a wheelchair, lock the wheels and protect your head and neck.
- If you're in a crowded public place, try to take cover in a location where there is no risk of being trampled.
If you're outside
- Stay away from buildings, power lines or structures that can collapse, such as billboards.
If you're in a vehicle
- Do not stop on a bridge, high-level roads, under an overpass or in a tunnel.
- Pull over to the side of the road in a cleared area and remain in your vehicle.
- In a bus, remain seated until the vehicle comes to a stop.
After an Earthquake
- If you're uninjured, check the condition of people around you. If someone is injured, call for help and if possible administer first aid.
If you're inside
- Check to make sure that a fire has not started in your home or that there is no gas leak. If in doubt, shut off the main electrical power switch. If there is a gas leak, turn off the main shut off valve . Do not light matches or lighters. Open the windows and leave the premises.
- If you are evacuating your home:
post a message in a clearly visible location, indicating where you are going
bring along your emergency kit
do not use an elevator
If you're outside
- Do not go into your home if it has been damaged.
- Do not go into any other damaged building, even if it looks safe.