February 22 2011

Media Statement – 2.30pm.
An earthquake has struck in Canterbury this afternoon. The Canterbury Emergency Coordination Centre is activating and currently responding to the earthquake.

Civil Defence Emergency Management advises that:
• Only people with major injuries are to report to hospitals; people with minor injuries are asked to go to the nearest medical centre or their local doctor.
• There is major building damage in the city and suburbs,
• There is disruption to roads and infrastructure,
• The road bridge over the Avon River on Fitzgerald Avenue has collapsed,
• A triage centre has been set up at Latimer Square to deal with injuries in the CBD and eastern suburbs.
We also advise people to:
- Expect aftershocks. Each time you feel one, drop, cover, and hold on.
- Help those around you if you can
- Report injuries or fires to the emergency services (dial 111).
- Put out small fires. Evacuate your building if fires cannot be controlled.
- Do not go sightseeing and stay out of damaged buildings.
- Do not go anywhere in your vehicle. Roads may be damaged and emergency vehicles need clear roads to travel quickly.
- It will take some time for emergency services to determine priorities and to respond accordingly. You may be on your own for some time.
- Listen to your radio for updates.

ENDS