Department of Emergency Management

Earthquakes occur frequently in Hawaii. Our island home is in a volcanic and tectonically active region with rifts, faults and fissures cutting through every one of the major islands. The tectonic process of the earth's moving crust builds stresses along the faults. This sudden release of stress causes earthquakes on land and undersea. Volcanic activity on the Big Island also creates minor tremors. Representative faults, zones and recorded earthquake epicenters are shown in the chart below.

During an earthquake, the "solid" earth moves like the deck of a ship. The actual movement of the ground, however, is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most casualties result from partial or total building collapse, falling objects, debris and shattering glass. Earthquakes may also trigger landslides, cause fires, and generate tsunamis (seismic sea waves).

If you feel a strong earthquake that makes you grab on to something to keep upright, and you are located in a tsunami inundation area, head for high ground. Don't wait for an announcement from Civil Defense. A locally generated tsunami leaves little time for warning. Act immediately!

The unique nature of the earthquake threat and potential disruption of life in Hawaii calls for pre- paredness actions at all levels...government, volunteer and private sector.

Check your home for potential hazards at least annually.

• Defective electrical wiring and leaky gas or in flexible connections are very dangerous in the event of an earthquake. Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances. Know where and how to shut off utilities at main switches. Contact your local utility company for instructions. Place large and heavy objects on lower shelves. Securely fasten shelves to walls. Brace or anchor high or top-heavy objects. Store breakables in low or closed cabinets. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures such as chandeliers.
• Check for ceiling and foundation cracks and repair if needed.

A flashlight and battery operated radio in case power is cut off. A supply of drinking water and nonperishable foods which can be prepared without cooking.

A fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

First of all, stay calm. If you are inside, stay inside. If outdoors. stay there. In earthquakes, most injuries occur as people are entering or leaving buildings.If indoors, take cover under a heavy desk, table, bench, or along an inside wall. Stay away from glass. Don't use candles, matches or other open flame during or after the tremor because of possible gas leaks.

If in a moving car, pull over and stop as quickly as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle. Do not stop or park under or on an overpass or bridge. A car may sway violently on its springs, but it is a good place to stay until the shaking stops. When you drive on, watch for hazards created by the earthquake like fallen objects, downed electric wires or blocked roadways.

Be prepared for aftershocks. They can cause more damage or topple weakened structures. Check for injuries. Turn on your radio or TV for emergency information from local authorities.

Check utilities. If leaks are detected, leave the building and don't reenter until an official says it's safe.

PLEASE KOKUA!

Sign up for emergency crews	Heavy Equipment Operation
Damage Assessment	Traffic Contro
Emergency Medical Aid	Emergency Communications

BE READY TO RESPOND.

Be prepared to bring your personal tools, special equipment and supplies. Free training for our  Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is available. Contact the Deptarment of Emergency Management at 723-8960 for more information.

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