Here are some general tips and suggestions that should be used after an earthquake hits to prevent from any further injuries.

• Open cabinets cautiously. Items inside could fall out unexpectedly. This tip is especially important when opening kitchen cabinetry. These cabinets contain glass which could shatter and seriously injure someone if the door is not opened carefully.
  
• Stay away from damaged areas unless specifically requested by emergency crews to offer your assistance.
  
• Do not enter your house until emergency crews tell you it’s safe to re-enter.
  
• Clean up spilled liquids such as medicine, bleach, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately.
  
• If you smell gas fumes or any other chemicals, leave the area immediately and contact the appropriate service.
  
• Inspect the chimney if one is owned. Unnoticed damage could result with a fire.
  
• Inspect all utilities.
  
  • Check for gas leaks. If you smell a foul stench or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open the windows immediately and leave the building. Turn off the gas with the gas valve and call the gas company from a phone away from your own home. Do not turn the gas back on until a professional arrives.
    
  • Check for electrical damage. If you see any stray wires, see any sparks, or smell any melted plastic odours, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you need to step into water to get to the fuse box or breaker, contact an electrician first for advice. After turning off the electricity, call an electrician to get your home safe again.
    
  • Check for sewage and water lines damage. If you see any sewage leakage, avoid using the bathrooms, and contact a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid drinking from the tap. You should have water stored somewhere to drink – if not, safe drinking water can be obtained by melting ice cubes.