Are You Ready for the Next Big Quake?
 Earthquakes strike suddenly and sometimes with extreme violence that can cause severe property damage and deaths. Although seismologists have made great strides in understanding the buildup of underground strains that eventually lead to earthquakes, it is still impossible to predict precisely where and when a temblor will occur. It is therefore essential for people who live near fault lines to prepare themselves and their homes for earthquakes and know what to do when an earthquake strikes. Owning an earthquake kit is one essential to have for your family.
Prepare your home.
- Secure shelves and other heavy furnishing to walls.
- Place heavy objects on low shelves.
- Store breakable objects in closed cabinets with latches.
- Hang heavy mirrors and pictures away from beds, chairs and couches.
- Brace overhead lighting fixtures.
- Secure water heater to a wall or floor.
- Ensure gas, plumbing and electrical systems are in good working order.
- Identify safe places in the home to take shelter such as under sturdy tables or against an inside wall.
- • Purchase an earthquake kit
Make a Plan
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency resources, emergency procedures and emergency shelters.
- Teach family members how to shut off gas, electricity and water.
- Develop a return-after-disaster plan with family members.
- Develop a family communication plan (with an out of state family member or friend as the central contact).
During a quake.
If inside…
- Take shelter under a sturdy table or desk.
- Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and objects that may fall.
- If in bed, stay in bed; cover head with a pillow.
- Stay inside until the shaking stops.
If outside…
- Stay outside.
- Move away from buildings, street lights and utility wires.
If in a moving vehicle…
- Stop as soon as it is safely possible.
- Avoid stopping near buildings, trees, utility poles.
- Avoid bridges and overpasses.
- If trapped under debris:
- Remain calm.
- Do not light a match.
- Cover your mouth with cloth.
- Tap on a pipe or other object to alert rescuers; avoid shouting as it can cause you to inhale hazardous materials.
After a quake
- Expect aftershocks.
- Inspect gas, electrical and water systems for damage. Shut off gas, power or water if a problem is suspected.
- Avoid damaged areas.
- Use a battery powered radio or TV to obtain emergency news; use telephones for emergencies only.
- Help people who are injured or trapped.
How to be More Prepared.
Keep well provisioned earthquake kits in the home, office and vehicles.
A basic home survival kit should include:
- Energy bars or other food with a long shelf life (3-day supply).
- Water in containers with a long shelf life (3-day supply).
- Water purification tablets.
- First Aid kit.
- Battery operated radio and flashlight. Light sticks.
- Thermal blankets.
- Tissue packs.
- Dust masks.
- Sanitation bags.
- Vinyl gloves.
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