The major 7.1 7.4 earthquake in Christchurch this morning, which has left major damage in the city, will be a very significant insurance event.
But insurance is not the first thing you should worry about, even though it is important.
Here are the ten things you should do after an earthquake.
1. Prepare yourself for aftershocks.
2. Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid for anyone who needs it.
3. Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities (use someone else's phone).
4. Turn on the radio. Don't use the phone unless it's an emergency.
5. Check the building or house you are in for structural damage. If there is evidence that the building is compromised structurally, immediately remove yourself and others as aftershocks are likely to occur that may cause further damage to the building. Stay away from other damaged buildings.
6. Take photographs for insurance purposes. Before beginning any cleanup or significantly moving debris, record the damage with multiple pictures from different distances and angles. This makes filing an insurance claim much easier and it is more likely to be accepted with photographic evidence.
7. Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.
8. Be careful of chimneys (they may fall on you).
9. Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.
10. If you're at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
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