
If you believe there is a gas leak, go outdoors immediately, and do not turn electrical switches or appliances on or off.Stay out of damaged buildings and areas until authorities deem them safe.Always assume a downed power line is live. Call 2-1-1 to obtain shelter locations and other disaster information.Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies including downed power lines and gas leaks.Try tapping on a pipe or wall or using a whistle to help rescuers locate you. If you are trapped, try calling or texting for help.Follow instructions from public safety officials.

Continue to monitor media for emergency information.Because of this, it is important to know some simple safety rules if the ground begins to shake.ĭuring an earthquake, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck with your arms and, if possible, a sturdy piece of furniture, and try to hold on until the shaking stops. Although these quakes typically cause only insignificant or mild damage, larger earthquakes are possible, and could cause serious damage to buildings and public infrastructure. Massachusetts is located in a moderate earthquake zone. Earthquakes can happen at any time of the year and occur without warning. Earthquakes can cause power outages or tsunamis. Most are smaller than the initial earthquake, but larger magnitude aftershocks can also occur. Additional earthquakes, called aftershocks, may occur for hours, days, or even months.

Initial mild shaking may strengthen and become extremely strong within seconds. An earthquake is the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth, caused by the breaking and shifting of subterranean rock.
