Due to an increase in strong earthquake activity in New Zealand on March 5, 2021, U.S. Consulate Auckland is sending the following reminders regarding earthquake safety.
For information on preparing for an earthquake before, during, and after an earthquake, visit: https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes. It is recommended that you prepare an emergency preparedness kit with enough food and water for three days at home and a “go bag” with must have items in the event of an evacuation from your home.
For the latest information from the U.S. Consulate General Auckland: enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): https://step.state.gov/
If you experience an earthquake, drop, cover, and hold on.
Drop: Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.
Cover: Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.
Hold On: If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.
New Zealand Earthquake Information
For the latest information on earthquakes and tsunamis specific to New Zealand, visit the New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency: https://www.civildefence.govt.nz. You may also receive an alert on your phone from New Zealand Civil Defence so be sure to keep your phone charged and near you.
When there is a threat of tsunami, the National Emergency Management Agency suggests the following for people in coastal areas:
- Listen to local Civil Defence authorities
- Stay out of the water (sea, rivers, and estuaries -- this includes boats)
- Stay off beaches and shore areas
- Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
