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Earthquake

Remain calm and quickly follow the steps outlined below.

  • DUCK or drop down to the floor, take COVER under a desk or sturdy table, HOLD ON, if it moves, move with it... OR
  • In all cases, stay away from glass windows, shelves, and heavy equipment.
  • Move quickly away from buildings, utility poles, and other structures if outside.
  • Evaluate the situation and call AHC Police Department, ext. 3911 (Santa Maria), ext. 5911 (Lompoc Valley), if emergency help is necessary.
  • From your cell phone call Santa Maria Police Dispatch 925-2631, or Lompoc Police Dispatch 736-4511
  • Prepare for aftershocks.
  • Report damaged facilities to Plant Services, ext. 3225 (Santa Maria), ext. 5225 (Lompoc Valley). If you have knowledge of the location, begin turning off all potentially hazardous equipment such as gas and electric appliances in coordination with your supervisor.
  • Exit the building by quickly walking to the nearest exit, alerting people as you go.
  • Be aware of structural damage and assist both people with disabilities and injuries.
  • FLASH the LIGHTS ON and OFF for deaf and hard of hearing people that might be in the classroom.
  • Move to a clear area at least 150 feet away from the affected building(s). Keep walkways clear for emergency vehicles.
  • Ensure affected facilities and/or occupancies have been fully vacated.
  • If necessary, the Incident Command Center will be activated with key administrators under the direction of the AHC Police Department.
  • If you have been asked to vacate, do not return to a building until told to do so by AHC police department personnel or the administrator in charge.