A very few would have ever thought that our area would be hit by an earthquake. Fortunately, no significant structural damage has been reported and there hasn’t been any injury due to the quake. However, similar quake may again happen, and thus the UMd’s police chief Paul Dillon is sending the following tips. Please call him at 301-405-5762 or email at dillon@umd.edu if you have further questions.
- During an earthquake if you are indoors take cover under a desk, table, or bench. If none is available, use an inside wall or doorway.
- Stay away from windows, outside doors, walls, and anything that could shatter or fall on you.
- If you’re sleeping, stay in bed and cover your head with a pillow. If your bed is under a heavy light fixture or you have a large mirror or painting over your headboard, move to the nearest safe place.
- Stay inside until the shaking stops. Most injuries during an earthquake occur when people enter or exit a structure.
- If you are outdoors move away from buildings, streetlights, and overhead utility wires.
- If you are in a Motor Vehicle stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires.