British Columbia is in an earthquake zone and it’s important that we’re prepared for when an earthquake strikes.
Over the past few weeks there have been a few minor earthquakes in our region, including a 4.1 magnitude near Orcas Island in the early hours of Mar. 3.
What to do during an earthquake
As soon as you realize an earthquake is occurring, protect yourself from falling objects and from being thrown to the ground. The best option is usually to Drop, Cover and Hold On.
Many earthquakes will start quite small but can quickly build in intensity. Take action before the strong earthquake energy arrives!
Learn more about what to do during and after an earthquake
What NOT to do:
- Don’t stand in a doorway. This is an old piece of advice that has been proven to not be effective.
- Don’t flee the building. This can cause you more harm than simply following the Drop, Cover, Hold On action.
- Do not believe the “Triangle-of-Life” that some people teach.
- Learn more
Prepare for the next earthquake
Earthquakes can happen anytime. There are a few simple actions you can take so that you’re prepared:
- Review the emergency procedures for campus.
- Sign up for UVic Alerts and download the UVic SafetyApp. Keep your information up-to-date in UVic Online tools – Personal and account profile
- Faculty and Instructors review this guidance
- Procedures for people with disabilities
- Be personally prepared: Make or buy an emergency kit (small kits are often available at the UVic Bookstore).
- Attend an emergency preparedness workshop.
- Download the guide, Prepare Yourself – A Guide to Emergency Preparedness in the Capital Region and use this information to prepare yourself and your household.
Stay informed in an emergency
- Check your email, text messaging and the UVic website for information from the university. For more information see UVic Alerts.
- Follow UVic social media and on-campus digital signage
- The new earthquake early warning system is designed to activate at a threshold ground shaking. However, in some earthquakes an alert will be sent out and can provide seconds to tens of seconds of notice before strong shaking starts.
