For years, we have been told that a major earthquake is likely to occur in New Zealand –within the next 50 years”. Those fifty years could be up as soon as tomorrow! The Institute of Geological & Nuclear Sciences records about 14,000 earthquakes in and around New Zealand each year. Most are small, but between 100 and 150 are big enough to be felt, and a severe one can occur at any time. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects caused by the ground shaking. We can take some simple steps to reduce the danger to families, our property, and ourselves when earthquakes occur.

Before an earthquake

• Identify safe places very close to you at home, school or workplace, such as under a sturdy table, or next to an interior wall. The safe place should be within a few steps or two metres to avoid injury from flying debris.
• Develop a Household Emergency Plan and have emergency survival items so that you can cope on your own for at least three days. Also prepare a survival kit to be stored in your vehicle.
• Secure heavy furniture like bookcases to the wall or floor and place heavy items near the floor. To get a complete list of things to check in your home, click here.
• Check that your chimney and hot water cylinder are secure.
• Seek building advice to ensure your home is secured to its foundations and any renovations comply with the NZ Building Code
• Check your household insurance for cover and amount.

During an earthquake

• Move no more than a few steps to a safe place, drop, cover, and hold on.
• Do not attempt to run outside
• If outside, move no more than a few steps to a safe place, drop, cover, and hold
• If in a lift, stop at the nearest floor and get out
• If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road. Stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops
• If you are near the coast, drop, cover and hold during an earthquake, and then move immediately to higher ground when the shaking stops.

After an earthquake

• Expect aftershocks and help those around you if you can
• Report injuries or fires to the emergency services (dial 111).
• Put out small fires. Evacuate the building if the fires cannot be controlled.
• If you smell gas, turn off the outside main gas valve and report it from a neighbourês home. If you see sparks or broken wires or suspect electrical system damage, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box.
• Listen to the radio for advice and information.
• If your property is damaged, take notes or photos for the loss adjustor.
• Do not go sightseeing and stay out of damaged buildings