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Emergency Planning

Earthquake

BC is in an earthquake zone. Earthquakes can happen without warning. Knowing how to respond during and after the shaking can help keep you and others safe.

What to do

  • Drop, cover and hold on under a desk or table or beside an interior wall. 
  • Watch for falling debris and hazards.
  • If outside: crouch low until shaking stops and keep away from buildings, trees, power lines and other hazards.
  • If in a vehicle: pull over in a safe spot away from overhead hazards. Stay inside the vehicle.
  • Stay in place until the shaking stops.
  • Be prepared for aftershocks.
Drop! Cover! Hold on!
Credit: Earthquake Country Alliance

 What not to do:

  • Do not pull the fire alarm unless there is fire.
  • Do not stand in a doorway (outdated advice).
  • Do not run outside the building—dropping, covering and holding on is safer.
  • Do not rely on the Triangle of Life method (also outdated advice).

After the earthquake

Minor earthquakes

If the building is safe, you may remain inside and resume activities.

Major earthquakes

Evacuate to the Campus Earthquake Assembly Area if any of the following are true:
  • an earthquake causes significant shaking
  • an earthquake causes visible damage (e.g., broken glass, overturned furniture, building damage)
  • an earthquake lasts more than 30 seconds
  • you receive a UVic Alert telling you to go to the Campus Earthquake Assembly Area

The safest route is to make your way to Ring Road and head to CARSA or nearby holding areas.

The Campus Earthquake Assembly Area is where you can get important updates, provide information to UVic (e.g., hazards, person in need of help) and receive first aid or assist others if you have first aid training.

Earthquake Evacuation Map
2.88MB PDF file

After the earthquake

  • Evacuate the building when safe to do so. Do not use elevators.
  • Go to the Campus Earthquake Assembly Area using designated routes.
  • If you need an initial safe meeting place, stop at a Holding Area before continuing to the Campus Earthquake Assembly Area.
  • Be cautious of aftershocks and new hazards.
  • If you leave campus, inform a colleague, supervisor or fellow student.
  • Do not re-enter buildings until authorities issue an All Clear.
  • Stay informed through the UVic website and UVic SafetyApp.

More information