Clean up spilled medicines, fuel or other flammable liquids immediately. Avoid the hazard of a chemical emergency. Open closet and cabinet doors cautiously. Contents may have shifted during the shaking of an earthquake and could fall, creating further damage or injury. If the electricity is out, this may be your main source of information.
Aftershocks frequently occur minutes, days, weeks, and even months.
Watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines, and stay out of damaged areas. Hazards caused by earthquakes are often difficult to see, and you could be easily injured. Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to inspect your home. Kerosene lanterns, torches, candles, and matches may tip over or ignite flammables inside. Avoid smoking inside buildings.