New Zealand experiences hundreds of earthquakes every year. Most are either very deep or centred well offshore, causing little damage or injury. However, a severe earthquake can occur at any time with devastating effects.
WHAT IS AN EARTHQUAKE?
The surface of our planet is not a complete shell, but is made up of large pieces, much like a jig-saw puzzle, called tectonic plates. Tectonic plates are always on the move. Tension builds up as they scrape over, under or past each other.
In some places movement between the plates is happening all the time, causing frequent small or moderate earthquakes. Other areas, where the movement is not constant, are prone to stronger quakes separated by longer periods of time.
Before
- Practice your earthquake drill: DROP, COVER AND HOLD.
- Talk with your family and prepare an emergency plan.
- Identify safe places close to you at home or school.
- Get your parents to 'Fix, Fasten and Forget' items at home.
During
- DROP, COVER AND HOLD.
- Stay where you are until the shaking stops.
- If inside remain inside, if outside stay outside.
- Do not attempt to run outside.
After
- Listen to and follow all instructions from adults or the radio.
- Stay calm.
- If you can, help others who may need it.
- Watch out for possible dangers or hazards.
- Remember there may be some aftershocks.
- Remember your prepared action plan and follow it if it is safe to do so.
