Earthquake Information

  • If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table and hold on, or stand in a corner or doorway that does not have doors on it (do not go in a doorway with doors; they can swing back and forth violently). Protect your head, neck, and face.
  • If outdoors, move to a clear area if you can safely do it. Avoid power lines, trees, signs, buildings, and vehicles
  • If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay in the vehicle until the shaking is over.
  • If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a desk or table and hold on. Do not attempt to use elevators.
  • If in a crowded public place or store, drop and take cover under anything that can provide protection, a shopping cart or inside clothing racks are good examples.
  • If in a theater or stadium, stay in your seat or drop to the floor between rows, and protect your head, neck, and arms. Don’t try to leave until the shaking is over.
  • After the shaking subsides, turn off computers; unplug electrical equipment; replace telephone handsets; go outdoors; and stay clear of buildings, walls, power lines, and trees.
  • Students in the Malibu residential community should contact their RA or their Residential Emergency Response Team (RERT) member–so that he/she will be able to account for everyone.
  • Students at locations other than the Malibu campus should report to the location coordinator.
  • Follow the procedures on this website for Fire, Hazardous Materials, and Serious Injuries as necessary.
  • Identify and assist the injured.
  • At Malibu, in the event of major damage or disruption, the Department of Public Safety will announce and implement relocation procedures. At all other locations, directions will be provided by public agencies or building maintenance personnel.
  • To report serious hazards or injuries, at the Malibu campus and at all other domestic University campuses, call 911. Then call the Department of Public Safety at (310) 506- 4441.
  • Keep phone lines clear except when necessary to report serious hazards or injuries.
  • Do not return to an evacuated building unless directed to do so by Public Safety or public agency personnel.
  • It is possible that roads will be blocked and impassable. Be prepared to stay where you are for a few hours (at graduate campuses) or for several days (at Malibu).
  • Insurance & Risk recommends keeping basic emergency supplies available in your car in case of an earthquake. Please see the list of Personal Preparedness items on this website for suggestions of what to keep on hand.