Earthquakes are detected at the University through seismic alarms.  However, at home or in other places there may not be these systems, so we must be prepared in case of an earthquake.
Identify the sound of the seismic alarm. At UDLAP it is intermittent when the earthquake is detected, and continuous while it is ocurring. In both cases you must evacuate.
Fasten paintings, bookshelves, filing cabinets, shelves, etc. so they do not fall.
Find and identify the power switches, and gas and water shut-off valves.  Know where the extinguishers, fire hydrants and first-aid kits are located.  
Keep your cell phone nearby and try to always have at least 50% battery, as well as flashlight and FM radio apps, so you can have light and communication.
Find the evacuation signs to know what route to take to the meeting point.
Prepare by training, and talk with colleagues about how to act during an earthquake.

Keep calm.
Reassure your colleagues.
Protect yourself when you start feeling the earthquake.
Use the triangle of life.  Stand next to the most resistant furniture or walls.
Stay protected until the earthquake ends, either in safety areas or meeting points.
Outdoors stay away from buildings, constructions, trees, lampposts and electric or phone lines.  Look for an open space to keep safe during the earthquake.
When traveling in a vehicle, control it and drive to a place away from buildings, trees, lamppost, bridges, overpasses, etc.  Stop in a safe area, turn off your car and don’t block traffic. Stay in your vehicle until the earthquake has stopped or traffic is moving.  It is important to turn on the radio to be informed.
Help people with disabilities, the elderly and children.

When the earthquake ends, all building residents must exit quickly (without running, pushing or shouting), covering your head with an object (portfolio, bag, etc.) and heading towards the meeting point (following the previously established route).
Avoid returning to the building as there may be another earthquake.
Do not light matches, cigarettes, equipment with open flames or electrical items that may produce a spark.
Tune a portable radio to the news, to find out about the situation and follow the instructions of trained personnel.
Do not overuse your phone with unnecessary calls.
Once the danger is over, specialized personnel will inspect every office in the building to look for structural damage, gas leaks, fires and short circuits.  During their search, they will close the shut-off valves for gas and water and turn off the main power switches.
Building occupants may return to their offices when the Safety Department determines that there are no more risks.

• Keep calm, assess the situation, try to identify what is causing the fire, how big it is, where it is and if it can spread.
• Tell those nearest you first, and then call the fire department.
• Try to control the situation by moving people to a safe place or by using a fire extinguisher.
• If the fire is spreading, evacuate the area.
• If you can’t get out, try to go to the roof.  Leave the roof access door open so the smoke does not accumulate in the staircase.
• Do not hide in bathrooms or closets, or underneath tables, desks or beds; the smoke and heat will invade all areas.
• Close any gas lines.
• Spontaneous combustion is created when fibrous, fine or powder fuels, such as sawdust, flour or cotton, mix. Keep all areas clear of these products.
• Do not leave flammable liquid bottles close to kitchens, heaters, or open fires. In case you need to store such liquids, it is recommended that they are in small amounts, perfectly sealed and identified, and in ventilated areas.
• Electrical connections of any building (house, office, school, etc.) must not be modified by anyone but an expert.
• Contacts and wall sockets must not be overloaded with two or three appliances where only one should be plugged in.  When several appliances are used simultaneously on the same electrical line, the circuit can overload.
• Avoid leaving computers, cell phones, tablets or electronic components on beds or sofas when charging, as they can overheat.
• Candles must be isolated, not have combustible materials nearby and blown out when not at home.
• Do not accumulate oil byproducts or any other oil/grease materials unless they are in proper containers. We recommend that such tanks be emptied daily after work hours, especially in businesses, factories, workshops, etc.
• We recommend having portable extinguishers in all areas (car, home, office, etc.)
• Teach children to prevent fires and ask for help.
• Supervise children when they are in the kitchen or places with electronic appliances, sockets, stoves, etc.
• Fireworks are a controlled activity due to their volatility and instability.  Avoid purchasing explosive artifacts;  in case you have them, do not throw them in the trash. Douse them with water at a safe distance, and take them to the closest military or civil protection area for their controlled and correct destruction.