Earthquake hits Washington, D.C. area

Message #6 (August 23, 2011 8:40 p.m.)

Gallaudet University residence halls have been inspected by structural engineers and are now open and students are returning to their living quarters.

In the event of another earthquake, or what are known as “aftershocks,” here are some steps to follow:

• If indoors, seek refuge in a doorway or under a desk or table. Stay away from glass windows, shelves and heavy equipment. Exit the building only after the shaking has stopped.
• If outdoors, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles, and other structures. Always avoid power or utility lines.
• If in an automobile, stop in the safest place available, preferably in an open area away from power lines and trees. Stop as quickly as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle for the shelter it offers.
• After the initial shock, evaluate the situation and if emergency help is necessary, contact DPS at x5555 (Voice/TTY/Videophone) or page:gallydps@sprint.blackberry.net.  Protect yourself at all times and be prepared for aftershocks immediately afterwards.
• Assist people, especially those with disabilities, to evacuate the building.
• Once outside, move to a clear area away from buildings, utility poles, or other structures.

Gallaudet University has returned to normal operations. New Student Orientation will continue as planned tomorrow, Wednesday, August 24.

Message #5 (August 23, 2011 6:25 p.m.)

Gallaudet University operations have returned to normal following an earthquake that occurred in the Washington, D.C. area. No injuries were reported. Additional details are as follows and apply to the evening of Tuesday, August 23 unless otherwise noted:

The University main cafeteria will provide food service to students, faculty and staff remaining on campus until 8:00 p.m. The cafeteria will remain open until 9:00 p.m. University residence halls will open at 7:00 p.m.

The Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) cafeteria will remain open until 7:00 p.m. and MSSD residence halls will reopen at 7:00 p.m.

Shuttle bus service will continue until 9:00 p.m. this evening. Normal operating hours will resume tomorrow, Wednesday, August 24.

The Mental Health Center will provide walk-in services tomorrow for students needing additional support. The Center will be open from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. except from 12:00-1:00 p.m. tomorrow Wednesday August 24.

To contact the university directly, please call 877-822-0680 (voice) or 202-448-7205 (voice) or 866-957-7998 (VP).

Message #4 (August 23, 2011 4:39 p.m.)

Gallaudet University closed for the day.

President T. Alan Hurwitz has closed Gallaudet University for the remainder of the day. All non-essential staff, faculty and non-residential students are being sent home.

Minor damage has been reported on several structures. People are asked to use caution and to adhere to caution tape and safety cones. No injuries are reported. For more information, call 877-822-0680 or 202-448-7205.

Students, faculty and staff are asked to report to campus as usual tomorrow Wednesday, August 24. Please check back to this website for further updates.

Message #3 (August 23, 2011 3:33 p.m.)

News reports have confirmed a 6.0 earthquake has occurred in the Washington, D.C., area.

Students, faculty and staff on the Gallaudet campus are being asked to gather at the football field. Non-essential staff are welcome to leave for the day.

Campus structures are being inspected and there are reports of minor damage. People are asked to stay away from structures. No injuries have been reported. Stay tuned for further updates.

Message #2 (August 23, 2011 3:13)

News reports have confirmed a 6.0 earthquake has occurred in the Washington DC area.

Students, Faculty, and Staff on the Gallaudet campus are being asked to gather at the football field. Campus structures are being inspected and there are reports of minor damage. People are being asked to stay away from structures. No injuries have been reported. Stay tuned for further updates.

Gallaudet shuttle can go only as far as M street. Gallaudet shuttle stops remain unchanged.

Message #1 (August 23, 2011 2:49)

There are unfirmed reports that the Washington DC area has experienced a 5.8 earthquake.

Students, Staff, and Faculty on the campus are being asked to gather on the football field. Campus officials are inspecting all structures for damage. Please stay tuned for further updates.