Earthquakes

Gibraltar sits near seismically active zones in the western Mediterranean. While major earthquakes are rare, tremors can occur with little or no warning.

Who is Most at Risk?

People in older buildings or those near the Rock face are most at risk from structural damage. Those in coastal areas should also be aware of the potential for tsunami activity following a major offshore earthquake.

Before

  • Know how to drop, cover and hold on — this is the recommended action during an earthquake.
  • Identify the safest places in each room of your home: under a sturdy table, or against an interior wall away from windows.
  • Secure heavy furniture and shelving to walls to prevent them from toppling.
  • Know where your gas, water and electricity shut-offs are and how to operate them.
  • Prepare a grab bag with essentials: water, food, first aid kit, torch, radio, copies of important documents, and medications.
  • Keep a battery-powered or wind-up radio to receive updates without electricity.
  • Ensure your home insurance is adequate and covers earthquake damage.

During

  • Drop to hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops.
  • If there is no table nearby, cover your head and neck with your arms and crouch against an interior wall.
  • Stay away from windows, exterior walls, and heavy objects that could fall.
  • Do not run outside during shaking — most injuries occur when people move or try to evacuate.
  • If outdoors, move away from buildings, power lines and trees. Drop to the ground.
  • If driving, pull over safely away from bridges, overpasses and buildings, and stay in the vehicle.
  • After shaking stops, be prepared for aftershocks.

After

  • Check yourself and others for injuries before moving. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger.
  • Expect and prepare for aftershocks.
  • Check for gas leaks — if you smell gas, open windows, leave the building and call emergency services. Do not use electrical switches.
  • Check for structural damage before re-entering any building. If in doubt, stay out.
  • If you are in a coastal area, move to higher ground immediately and monitor tsunami warnings.
  • Do not use lifts in the aftermath of an earthquake.
  • Listen to GBC Radio (91.3 FM / 1458 AM) for official instructions.