From LINKS Community Center
Created: 23 September 2023
Last edited: 23 October 2023
Last edited: 23 October 2023
Type:
WebsitePublishing Organisation:
U.S. Department of Homeland SecurityLanguages
- English
Scenarios
- Tsunami
Disaster Management Phase
After, Before, During
PREPARE
- Learn the signs of a potential tsunami, such as
- an earthquake,
- a loud roar from the ocean, or
- unusual ocean behavior, such as
- a sudden rise or wall of water or
- sudden draining of water showing the ocean floor.
- Know and practice community evacuation plans.
- Some at-risk communities have maps with evacuation zones and routes.
- Map out your routes from home, work and play.
- Pick shelters 30m or more above sea level, or at least one km inland.
- Create a family emergency communication plan that has an out-of-state contact.
- Plan where to meet if you get separated.
- Sign up for your community’s warning system.
- Consider earthquake insurance and a flood insurance policy.
- Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood or earthquake damage
DURING
- If there are natural signs or official warnings of a tsunami, move immediately to a safe place as high and as far inland as possible.
- Listen to the authorities, but do not wait for tsunami warnings and evacuation orders.
- If you are outside of the tsunami hazard zone and receive a warning, stay where you are unless officials tell you otherwise.
- Leave immediately if you are told to do so.
- Evacuation routes often are marked by a wave with an arrow in the direction of higher ground.
- If you are in the water, then grab onto something that floats, such as a raft or tree trunk.
- If you are in a boat, face the direction of the waves and head out to sea. If you are in a harbor, go inland.
AFTER
- Listen to local alerts and authorities for information on areas to avoid and shelter locations.
- Save phone calls for emergencies.
- Phone systems often are down or busy after a disaster.
- Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris.
- Water may be deeper than it appears.
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution.
- Underground or downed power lines can electrically charge water.
- Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
- Stay away from damaged buildings, roads and bridges.
- If you become injured or sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider and shelter in place, if possible.
- Call the emergency call number (112) if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
- Document property damage with photographs.
- Conduct an inventory and contact your insurance company for assistance.
Note:
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