Earthquake advice, one year on

It’s been a year since one of Victoria’s strongest earthquakes on record hit, and VicEmergency has put out a safety reminder on what to do if another earthquake hits.

The most basic advice is to ‘drop, cover, and hold on’ – in other words, drop to the floor, get cover under something sturdy such as a table, and hold onto it until the shaking stops.

If you are indoors when an earthquake starts, it’s safer to stay where you are until the shaking stops. Once the shaking stops you should exit the building, as the building could potentially be damaged, putting your life at risk.

If you can’t find something sturdy to get cover under, you should avoid exterior walls, windows, anything with glass or that is likely to fall, and protect your head and neck with a pillow, book, or whatever is available.

If you’re outdoors when an earthquake starts, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires, and once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops.

For more information on earthquake safety, head to www.ses.vic.gov.au/plan-and-stay-safe/emergencies/earthquake, and follow Victoria State Emergency Service on social media.

For emergency assistance during an earthquake, you can call VICSES on 132 500, or if in a life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000).