Earthquake

Why Think About Earthquakes In The Cayman Islands?

The Cayman Islands lie close to the boundary zone of the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates. This transform boundary, where the plates slide past each other, is known to generate earthquakes. The earthquake of 14 December 2004 is associated with this plate boundary. So, although the Cayman Islands has not experienced many earthquakes, there is the potential for us to be affected by a major earthquake.

What to Expect In an Earthquake

During an earthquake, the ground moves like waves on the ocean. The actual movement of the ground, however, is seldom the cause of injury or death. Most injuries and deaths are caused by the collapse of structures. Injuries are commonly caused by:

• Structures collapsing, falling blocks, walls, poles, roofs, ceiling plaster, light fixtures and pictures
• Flying glass from broken windows
• Overturned bookcases, wall units, filing cabinets, and other heavy furniture
• Fires from ruptured gas and broken electrical lines (this danger may be aggravated by a lack of water due to broken water mains)
• Fallen power lines
• Vehicular accidents

Earthquake Precautions

Although earthquakes strike without warning, there are many actions that can be taken to reduce their impact. It is important that some of these precautions be taken before an earthquake occurs.

Before An Earthquake

Ensure your building meets the requirements of the building code. This will help make it earthquake resistant.

You can mitigate non-structural hazards in your building:

• Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances.
• Place large and heavy objects on lower shelves.
• Securely fasten shelves, heavy furniture and filing cabinets to walls;  computers should be attached to desks.
• Bottles, glass, china, and other breakables should be stored locked cabinets; all cabinets should be kept locked.
• Overhead lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers and other suspended lighting, should be se curely anchored and covered.
• Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. 
• Practise earthquake drills regularly, so you know what to do in an earthquake. 

Have on Hand

• Flashlights and battery-operated radios in case power is cut off
• Fire extinguishers
• First Aid kit
• Emergency supplies of food and water

During An Earthquake

• Stay calm — think through the consequences of any action you take.
• If you are inside, stay inside. Take cover under a heavy desk, table, bench, in a reinforced doorway, or a corner. Evacuate by stairway when the shaking stops. Never use elevators to evacuate after an earthquake.
• If you are outdoors, stay outdoors. During earthquakes, many injuries occur as people are entering or leaving buildings. Move away from buildings, utility wires, glass, hanging signs and other objects which may fall and cause injury. Get to an open space and stay there until the shaking stops.

After An Earthquake

• Evacuate the building in an orderly manner as soon as the shaking stops.
• Do a head count to ascertain if anyone is missing; report missing persons to the emergency services.
• Never re-enter a building after an earthquake until you are informed to do so by the authorities.
• Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Moving them could make some injuries worse.
• Check for fires or fire hazards.
• Report damage to the appropriate utility companies. Never turn on electrical switches until you are informed that it is safe to do so.
• Never use matches, lighters, or any open flame until you are advised that no gas leak exists.
• Ensure that sewage lines are intact before flushing toilets.
• Do not use your telephone except for genuine emergency calls.
• Listen to the radio for damage reports and other information.
• If you are on the coast, move inland or to higher ground in case there is a tsunami.
• Do not go sightseeing. Keep the street clear for emergency vehicles.

Be prepared for additional earthquake shocks called ‘aftershocks’. Although most of these are smaller than the main shock, some may be large enough to cause additional damage and damaged buildings to collapse.

For further information, contact:

Hazard Management Cayman Islands

• Second Floor
• The Corporate Centre
• Hospital Road
• P.O. Box 10345
• Grand Cayman KY1-1103
• Tel. 345-244-3147
• Fax 345-946-5020