Earthquake Hazards

When there is an incident, such as a natural or manmade disaster, an Incident Command System (ICS) or similar management system is typically established for response command, control, and coordination. ICS is a nationally-recognized framework under which all involved or interested entities and stakeholders (whether federal, tribal, state, local, or private) operate. It establishes one command structure with known and scheduled deliverables and uses standardized terminology.

Emergency response operations are usually managed by the local or state government. You should contact your local or state emergency operations center or emergency management office, public health offices, or local fire department for immediate assistance.

This step is important because the incident command may be able to provide invaluable data about what is happening as well as additional resources before you attempt to return to or enter your home or business.

Damage to a home or business from a tornado or other natural disaster can be obvious or hidden, so be aware of possible structural, electrical, or gas-leak hazards. Tornadoes frequently tear off roofs, shatter windows, and leave homes or businesses susceptible to water damage. If you have left the area where the damage from a disaster occurred, before returning to your home or business, be sure that local officials have declared it is safe to reenter the community or your home.

Before entering a home or business, check for broken tree branches, especially those that pose a safety risk because they are obstructing access or may be in contact with power lines. If power lines are down outside or inside (through collapsed roof structures) your home or business, avoid coming near your home or business until local utility companies have confirmed power was shut down and the downed lines are not energized.

Approach entrances carefully, as parts of the building may be collapsed or damaged. See if porch roofs, gutters and downspouts, and overhangs have all their supports. Try to look inside to check the ceiling and floor for signs of sagging. Water may be trapped in the ceiling, or floors may be unsafe to walk on. Be sure the building is structurally sound, and, if unsure, request and wait for a qualified structural engineer to verify structural soundness. Avoid inspecting a building in the dark, unless absolutely necessary, and use a flashlight rather than a candle or torch to avoid the risk of fire or explosion.

In addition to structural damage concerns, common causes of injury after a disaster include stepping on nails, falling objects, eye injuries from sawdust while using chainsaws, and heavy, rolling objects. Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves and pants, and gloves and always wear eye protection such as safety glasses or goggles when there is a potential for flying particles and debris. In some cases, disposable protective coveralls and hard hats may be appropriate. Avoid performing any form of demolition or removal of large items (e.g., furniture) as this activity may cause inner walls or ceilings to collapse. In general, if you suspect any damage to the home or building, shut off electrical power (if safe to do so or contact the utility company), natural gas, and LPG tanks to avoid fire, electrocution, or explosions, and do not enter until you are assured it is safe to do so. Contact the local city or county building inspector for information on structural safety codes and standards.

Here are some useful resources to recognize and address these kinds of hazards:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Safety Guidelines: After a Tornado

Virginia Tech Emergency Management

• Get Guides, Emergency Management

Allstate Insurance Company

• What is Hazard Insurance for Homeowners?

Electrical power lines and circuits may have been damaged in a disaster, so look out for fallen wires and take caution when moving about. If your home has flooded, it’s important to have a qualified electrical professional inspect it to be sure that water-damaged wiring does not lead to a fire.

If a power line falls on your car while driving, stay inside and drive away from the line. If unable to move the vehicle, wait for emergency responders before exiting, if possible. When around downed electrical lines, avoid touching any metal or wet object. Be especially cautious of stepping into standing water because live electrical lines may have fallen into the water creating an electric shock hazard. Never use electrical tools when you are standing in water.

Contact your local utility company to verify that power is out in the home or business before entering these premises with downed power or exposed electrical wiring from walls or ceilings. Other hazards may be in your home or business. Electrical wires behind walls and above ceiling panels may be damaged, so look for the following indicators of electrical hazards:

• Buzzing or crackling sounds indicating loose connections or damaged wiring
• Warm spots on a wall or vibrations along the wall
• Flickering or dim lights
• Discolorations or burns

If possible and safe, turn off the breaker or remove the fuses in your home when your power is out, especially before connecting a generator to your home’s circuit. Gasoline- or diesel-powered generators must be installed and used correctly. If it is necessary to connect a generator to house wiring, this activity should be done BEFORE an incident, not immediately after one. Ensure a qualified electrician conducts the installation in accordance with state and local codes which should include appropriate equipment such as an approved rapid-shutdown switch (RSD) to prevent a possible fire if your power is suddenly restored while operating the generator. It is preferable to have the interrupt device installed before the disaster when resources and trained electricians are widely available. Check the generator’s maximum amperage load and do not exceed it. Always place generators outside and away from the structure to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Damaged homes, particularly where electrical outlets or wires are exposed from walls, ceilings, or floors, should not have any generator tied into the home’s electrical system as this may cause fires.

Solar-powered generators may be an optimal and safer solution than using gasoline- or diesel-powered generators. If charged fully before an event, these generators, depending upon their power capacities, can charge refrigerators, smartphones, rechargeable flashlights, and other essential items. However, large solar-powered generators tied electrically into homes or businesses must have installation done by qualified electricians BEFORE an incident. Solar-powered generators integrated into a home or business electrical system should not be used when there are any exposed electrical wires. Home and business owners should read and follow all manufacturer instructions before attempting to use these devices after a disaster. 

If thunderstorms occur, seek a sturdy shelter or a car (preferable not in an area where trees may fall causing a collapse and trapping situation), or stay low to the ground outdoors. Avoid standing near a tree in a thunderstorm. If you are indoors during a thunderstorm, turn off computers and appliances.

Additional guidance for homeowners and small business owners on electrical hazards can be found at:

Electrical Safety Foundation International

• Home Disaster Safety

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• What to Do to Protect Yourself from Electrical Hazards

New Day Solar

• Solar Power in an Emergency: Resilience and Preparedness with Solar Energy

Many modern buildings contain gas-fired appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, and cooking surfaces. Gas-fired appliances may be connected to a natural gas provider or may rely on an independent storage tank, typically filled with LPG and ranging from 500 to 1,000-gallons in size. Small portable tanks, 20 to 150 pounds, may also be used for temporary heating, in equipment, or for outdoor cooking.

Natural gas and LPG are extremely flammable and pose serious risks after a disaster. A leak can cause an explosion or fire if it encounters any spark or flame. In enclosed spaces, LPG can displace oxygen and cause suffocation. If LPG contacts your skin, it can cause severe frostbite. Tanks exposed to fire or extreme heat can rupture violently, sending tank pieces flying hundreds of feet.

Flammable fuel service to a building may include natural gas, LPG, and fuel oil. Each service may become damaged due to physical damage to a building, such as from a tornado, or from other events that displace the building, such as an earthquake. Such damage may cause a fuel leak in the building that may be difficult to detect. One way to see if there is a possible leak is to look at the service meter. For example, natural gas is delivered to a building through a regulator and meter located on the outside of the building. The meter shows how much natural gas is flowing through the regulator. If no natural gas use is occurring in the building, a fast-spinning meter may indicate a leak is occurring. Smelling rotten eggs, sulfur, or a skunk-like odor near a gas line is another indicator that there may be a leak. Natural gas and LPG are naturally odorless, so an odorant that smells like rotten eggs called ethyl mercaptan, is added prior to distribution.

Natural gas and LPG are flammable. An inadvertent ignition source or spark may ignite a fuel leak, resulting in an explosion and further damage to the structure and injure you or others. As a result, the building’s fuel distribution and delivery systems should be inspected immediately following an event that resulted in or could have resulted in physical damage to the piping or fuel distribution structures inside or immediately outside the building.

If you smell natural gas (a rotten egg or skunk-like odor) or suspect a leak:

• Leave the area immediately and get everyone out
• Do not use phones, light switches, or anything that could create a spark
• Once you are a safe distance away (at least 330 feet), call 911 (for the U.S.) and your natural gas or LPG supplier
• Do not return to the area until emergency responders say it is safe
• Never try to fix a LPG leak yourself

Have a qualified natural gas or LPG service technician inspect your entire natural gas or LPG system before using it again. Your natural gas provider may also assist with evaluating for a potential gas leak. Such an inspection should occur with the power disconnected and include the use of a direct-reading combustible gas or volatile organic compound (VOC) detector. The inspection should start at the fuel delivery source such as a gas regulator and meter or LPG storage tank shut-off valve.

Here are some useful resources to recognize and address these kinds of hazards:

Consumer Product Safety Commission

• Consumer Safety Pamphlet (PDF)
  • Information about various hazards associated with natural gas appliances

American Gas Association

• Kids & Natural Gas Safety (Video)
  • Aimed at educating youth on natural gas safety in the home

Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials and conditions may be present due to damaged building materials containing lead or asbestos, sewage-contaminated items, or chemicals and cleaning products present in floodwater. In many cases, these building materials are damaged and dislodged during a natural disaster, resulting in the potential for airborne exposure to fibers and particles. Building owners should be aware of this potential, and they should take extra precautions when encountering these materials.

For building owners, here are some useful resources to recognize and address these kinds of hazards:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Fact Sheet: Clean Up Safely After a Disaster
  Addresses carbon monoxide, sewage, heat-related illnesses, chemicals, water, hygiene, and infectious disease issues
• Guidelines for Protecting Yourself from Chemicals After a Disaster
  Addresses chemicals in general, household chemicals, and oil spills

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• Natural Disaster: Flooding
• Asbestos

Extreme heat or cold conditions may occur during emergencies and be exacerbated by the loss of heating and cooling during power outages. People also tend to work harder than usual when responding to an emergency, and their bodies may not be acclimated to heavy workloads under extreme temperatures. Proper prevention, planning, and response protocols are essential to protect health and maintain performance.

Hot Conditions

Some tips for working under hot conditions include:

• Keep hydrated. Frequently drink small amounts of water, even before you get thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and drinks with high sugar content
• Eat light, non-greasy meals
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Schedule heavy tasks earlier in the day or at a time during the day when the heat index is lower
• Take frequent rest breaks in a shaded or cool area

Recognize heat stress signs and symptoms:

• Heat exhaustion - heavy sweating; cool, moist skin; fast, weak pulse with fast, shallow breathing; paleness; faintness; cramping; tiredness; headache; dizziness; nausea; or vomiting
• Heatstroke - no sweating; red, hot, dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; nausea; headache; confusion; uncontrolled twitching; or unconsciousness
• Heat cramps - usually occur in the abdomen, arms, or legs
• Heat rash - painful, red cluster of pimples or small blisters most likely on the neck, upper chest, in the groin area, under the breast, or at the elbow or knee creases

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are emergencies that can lead to death. Call for emergency assistance (e.g., 911). 

Then, gently move the victim to a cool and/or shady area. Loosen clothing, remove footwear, and elevate legs. Cool the victim using cool water or cold packs; in low humidity, you can use wet cloths.

Additional guidance related to safely working in hot conditions may be found at:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Heat Stress and Workers

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• Know the Symptoms of Heat-Related Illnesses Infographic

National Weather Service

• What is the Heat Index?

AIHA® Heat Stress App

• Google Play
• Apple App Store

NSW Health

• Urine Color Chart

Cold Conditions

Cold environments can create serious safety risks, especially when people are exposed to wind, wet conditions, or sudden drops in temperature. Even temperatures around 60°F, or 15.6 °C, can pose risks when combined with moisture, wind, or inadequate clothing. Maintaining warmth through proper layering, hydration, and regular breaks is essential to prevent cold stress.

Some tips for working under cold conditions include:

• Wear head, face, and ear covering and layered clothing:
  • 1st layer – material that allows the skin to breathe by allowing sweat to escape, such as polypropylene or knitted silk.
  • 2nd layer – material that absorbs perspiration but does not allow heat to escape, such as polypropylene fleece or other synthetic fibers.
  • 3rd layer – material that traps body heat and keeps water or dampness out, such as quilted coats filled with down or a lightweight microfiber and has a waterproof outer layer.
    Note: If the coat is not waterproof, wear a water-resistant shell or windbreaker. The outer layer should have a way to vent excess body heat (such as zippers in the armpits) to prevent the inner layers from becoming wet from sweat. Higher insulation values of protective clothing are required for higher wind speeds and lower temperatures in the work area.
• Wear waterproof boots to protect your feet. If boots have liners, replace them when damp.
• Wear gloves, or preferably mittens, to protect hands. Replace when damp.
• Use UV-rated safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes against glare and blowing ice crystals.
• Drink warm, non-alcoholic fluids frequently. Limit caffeine.
• Take regular breaks in a warm area. During breaks, loosen or remove outer layers to allow sweat to evaporate. Change into dry clothing before returning to the cold.

Recognize cold stress symptoms, which may include:

• Hypothermia (Adults) Shivering; confusion; exhaustion; slurred speech; loss of coordination
• Hypothermia (Children) Bright red, cold skin; low energy
• Frostbite Numbness; white or grayish skin; waxy appearance

Hypothermia is an emergency that can lead to death. Call for emergency assistance (e.g., 911 for the U.S.) if a person shows the symptoms of hypothermia or has a body temperature below 95°F or 35 °C. Move the person gently to a warm area. Remove wet clothing, wrap in dry layers, and begin gradual warming. For frostbite, warm the affected area slowly with warm water or body heat; do not rub or massage. 

Additional guidance related to working in cold conditions may be found at:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Working in the Cold
• NIOSH Fast Facts: Protecting Yourself from Cold Stress
• Winter Weather Safety
• Winter Weather: Before, During, and After

Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety

• Cold Environments: Working in the Cold
• Preparing Outside Workers to Battle the Cold

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is a combustion byproduct. CO is a chemical asphyxiant that interferes with the body’s ability to re-oxygenate blood leading to asphyxiation. CO is a common, unfortunate cause of death for many home occupants each year. Homes and commercial structures fueled by hydrocarbons such as natural gas, LPG, or fuel oil will generate CO during combustion. This is especially true during peak, seasonal heating demand, such as winter months, when buildings may not exchange as much outdoor air. Fuel-powered generators also generate CO when operating which is why they must be run outdoors. The same is true for gas and charcoal grills—they also produce CO and must only be used outdoors.

You or an expert must adequately vent CO from fuel combustion processes such as generators, water heaters, or furnaces to outside the building. Physical damage to the building, such as following a tornado or earthquake, may damage or compromise building combustion venting apparatus. Inadequate venting or excessive or poorly mixed combustion may result in CO building-up in your home or building, endangering its occupants. Using carbon monoxide detectors can help alert occupants of an issue.

You may find more information on carbon monoxide at:

Consumer Product Safety Commission

• Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet 

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Clinical Guidance for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Following Disasters and Severe Weather

American Red Cross

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Safety

Heavy rains during or after a tornado may result in flooding or standing water. Floodwater and standing waters often contain infectious organisms, including gastrointestinal bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella; hepatitis A virus; and agents of typhoid, paratyphoid, and tetanus. Moreover, pools of standing or stagnant water can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of encephalitis, West Nile virus, Zika, or other mosquito-borne diseases. The presence of wild or stray animals in populated areas increases the risk of diseases caused by animal bites (e.g., rabies) and diseases carried by fleas and ticks.

To avoid bacterial and viral exposures, keep children and pets out of standing water and contaminated materials. Hands should be cleaned regularly by either hand-washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol). When hands are visibly soiled or dirty, it is best to wash your hands with soap and clean running water for 20 seconds. If unable to wash hands, it is recommended you use a wet wipe to remove visible dirt before using hand sanitizer.

To protect yourself and your family from animal- and insect-related hazards, avoid wild or stray animals, drain standing water in open containers to minimize mosquito breeding places, use an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains (e.g., DEET or picaridin), and wear long pants, socks, long-sleeved shirts, and head and face coverings.

Livestock might no longer be confined after a disaster, and the pollution they generate may contaminate surface waters used for drinking. Loose dogs or other roaming animals may be lost, frightened, or hurt and more likely to bite. The CDC recommends that you not feed, approach, or call a dog you do not know. Rats and mice can spread disease, contaminate food, and destroy property. Rodents may also spread diseases via bites and droppings. Remove food sources and other items that can provide shelter for rodents. Keep food and water (including pet food) in containers made of thick plastic, glass, or metal with a tight-fitting lid to keep rodents out. For more information, see the following:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• Protect Yourself from Animal and Insect-Related Hazards after a Disaster
• Safety Guidelines: Floodwater

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• Repellents: Protection against Mosquitoes, Ticks and Other Arthropods
• Find the Repellent that is Right for You

Illinois Department of Public Health

• After the Flood 

After natural disasters, homeowners, business owners, and response personnel may encounter some items containing radioactive materials, most notably smoke detectors and commercial exit lights. Smoke detectors are ubiquitous in most buildings, including residential, commercial, and institutional facilities, since there are code requirements to have them in most jurisdictions. Most smoke detectors use a minimal radioactive source, generally americium-241. However, the level of radiation emitted from a smoke detector is insufficient to create a public health hazard, and there are no federal regulatory requirements for disposal.

Dislocated or damaged smoke detectors may or may not suitable for reinstallation. Because smoke detectors save lives, if there is any doubt about a device's suitability, it may be prudent to exercise precaution and purchase a new smoke detector unit. In general, if damaged or unusable, the recovered smoke detector should be returned to the manufacturer if at all possible. Consult local fire protection agencies for advice.

Self-luminous exit lights may contain the radioactive gas tritium and are generally found in commercial and institutional facilities, especially in locations where electrical power is not available or difficult to run. Tritium exit signs are similar in appearance to electrically-powered exit signs, but may be marked with words or abbreviations such as “Tritium,” “Radioactive,” “Curie,” “NRC,” “H3,” or others on the back, sides, or bottom. Tritium exit signs provide illumination from sealed glass tubes inside the unit containing tritium gas, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. The tritium gas emits a form of radiation that interact within the tube to produce illumination.

As long as the glass tube within the sign remains unbroken, there is little risk of radiation exposure. However, if this internal glass tube becomes broken, there is some risk of exposure. If the word “Exit” is not fully illuminated, it indicates that the tritium gas has escaped. As a gas, the tritium will dissipate over time. The rate of dissipation depends on the ventilation rate in the area.

The greatest risk to people occurs when a tritium exit sign first breaks or indicates that there is gas leakage. If a tritium exit sign breaks or appears broken, leave the area immediately. Consult an IH or OEHS professional or the state radiation office.

Disposal of tritium exit signs is highly regulated. They must not be disposed of in normal trash or abandoned. If you encounter a displaced tritium exit light, consult with an IH or contact the state radiation office.

You may find additional resources at:

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

• Backgrounder on Smoke Detectors
• Backgrounder on Tritium EXIT Signs

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

• Tritium in Exit Signs

General Disaster Relief Information

General disaster relief assistance information is available on these websites:

• American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org
• Disaster Assistance: General website for applying for disaster aid, determining if you are eligible, and finding various assisting agencies. http://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• Disaster Assistance List by Federal Agency: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/get-assistance/by-category-or-agency  
• Federal Emergency Management Agency: How to contact FEMA directly for Disaster Aid: https://www.fema.gov/about/contact
• National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster: https://www.nvoad.org