What to do before, during, and after an earthquake

These are useful tips that everyone should be aware of, with simple measures for protecting both ourselves and those around us.

The information leaflet offers simple advice and instructions on what to do before an earthquake, during the tremor, and after the seismic event.

Before an earthquake

• Keep a survival kit in a backpack near the exit, containing essentials like a small radio, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight with batteries, a blanket, a solar charger, some cash, a whistle, dry food, and baby food if there are children. Call it your “survival kit!”
• Secure furniture, like cabinets and bookshelves, that might fall, firmly to the walls.
• Make sure lights, ceiling fans, and wall frames are properly secured.
• Move heavy objects to lower shelves.
• Keep appliances and other objects away from doors to prevent them from blocking exits if they shift.
• Have a fire extinguisher (or fire blanket) in an accessible location, maintain it as per instructions, and know how to use it.
• Identify a sturdy piece of furniture under which you can shelter during an earthquake, staying there until the shaking stops.
• Plan your escape route once the shaking stops and check for any obstacles.
• Choose a safe meeting point with family members or colleagues in case you get separated.
• Discuss safety measures with family members or colleagues at work.
• Collaborate with the safety officer at your workplace, if applicable, and participate in evacuation drills at least once a year.
• If possible, take a first aid course so you can assist others in need.

During an earthquake

• Take cover under sturdy furniture (e.g., a table, desk, or bed).
• If there is no sturdy furniture, kneel to reduce your height and protect your head and neck with your hands. Use a bag or briefcase to shield yourself if you have one.
• Move away from large glass surfaces (e.g., windows), walls, or furniture that could fall and cause injury.
• Stay calm, as many victims are injured while rushing to exit buildings.
• If outdoors, remain there, away from buildings, rocks, poles, and power lines.
• If you are in a vehicle, carefully stop in an open space without obstructing traffic and stay inside.
• Move away from coastlines in case of a potential tsunami.
• Avoid tunnels, bridges, or elevated crossings.

After an earthquake

• Use the stairs! Never the elevator. Help others evacuate the building and take your survival kit with you.
• Avoid stepping onto balconies.
• Turn off the electricity and gas supplies.
• Do not light matches or lighters to avoid the risk of gas explosions.
• If you smell gas, open windows and doors.
• If a fire starts and you can control it, use the appropriate type of fire extinguisher.
• Go to the pre-agreed safe meeting point, which should be away from buildings, large trees, and power lines.
• Remember that aftershocks may follow, which could also be destructive.
• Use your phone only when necessary to avoid overwhelming the phone network.
• Inform the authorities about any building collapse or injured people.
• Assist the injured if you know first aid, or find someone who can help.
• Do not move seriously injured people unless their lives are in immediate danger (e.g., from a collapsing wall).
• Do not touch live wires or objects in contact with them to avoid electrocution!
• If trapped, try to signal for help so rescue teams can find you. A whistle is ideal for this.
• Avoid using your car unnecessarily to prevent hindering rescue operations.
• Follow the instructions of the authorities to avoid disrupting their work.
• Keep up with media reports and follow instructions given to the public.
• Avoid entering your home, especially if there is visible damage until the authorities have conducted an inspection.

What to do in case of a Tsunami warning

While most earthquakes in Cyprus do not cause tsunamis, it’s important to remain alert, especially if you are in a low-lying coastal area.

Watch for a significant rise or fall in the water level, a natural warning sign. Move away from the coast and head inland to higher ground. A small tsunami in one area can grow into a large one further away.

Stay away from the coast. A tsunami consists of multiple waves, so only return when the authorities confirm it’s safe.

Do not approach the coast to watch an oncoming tsunami. By the time you see it, it may be too late to escape.