Earthquake Preparedness

• Develop a family earthquake plan. Prepare yourself and your home by completing the activities on this checklist.
• Decide how and where your family will reunite if separated.
• Choose an out-of-area friend or relative who separated family members can call after the quake to report their whereabouts and condition.
• Know the safe spots in each room: under sturdy tables, desks, or against inside walls.
• Know the danger spots: windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.
• Conduct practice drills. Physically place yourself in safe locations.
• Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from your local American Red Cross chapter or other community organization.
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers.
• Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in case the lines are damaged. (Safety note: Do not attempt to relight a gas pilot).
• Secure water heaters and appliances that could move enough to rupture lines.
• Secure heavy furniture, hanging plants, heavy pictures or mirrors.
• Keep flammable or hazardous liquids in cabinets or on lower shelves.
• Maintain emergency food, water and other supplies, including a flashlight, a portable battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medicines, first aid kit and clothing.

• If indoors, stay there and take cover under a table, desk, or other sturdy furniture.
• Face away from windows and glass doors.
• A doorway without a door is an acceptable location in which to stand.
• Lie, kneel or sit near a structurally sound interior wall or corner away from windows, brick fireplaces, glass walls, etc.
• Protect your head and body from falling or flying objects.
• Remain where you are until shaking stops. Think out your plan of action first, then move.
• Know exit routes if in a commercial building. Take cover and don’t move until the shaking stops.
• If outside, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines.
• Lie down or crouch low to maintain balance.
• Get to the best available shelter if there is no open area available.
• If driving, stop safely as soon as possible. Stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops.
• Do not stop your vehicle under overpasses or bridges.
• Stay below window level in your vehicle.
• Turn off the engine and turn on the radio. Follow emergency instructions.
• Stay in the vehicle if downed power lines have fallen across it. Do not touch metal. Wait for help. You might be able to back away from lines.
• If you have to leave your vehicle, move to an open area quickly.

• Check for injuries. Render first aid. Do not move seriously injured victims unless they are in immediate danger. Do not use the telephone immediately unless there is a serious injury, fire or other emergency. Hunt for hazards.
• Check for other hazards and control them (fire, chemical spills, toxic fumes and possible collapse).
• Check utilities (water, gas, electric). If there is damage, turn the utility off at the source.
• Check for other hazards and control them (fire, chemical spills, toxic fumes and possible collapse).
• Check building for cracks and damage, including roof, chimneys, and foundation.
• Check food and water supplies.
• Emergency water can be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, canned vegetables, and toilet tanks.
• Never use matches, lighters or candles inside.
• Turn on the radio and listen for emergency broadcasts/announcements, news reports, and instructions. Cooperate with public safety officials.
• Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
• If buildings are suspect, set up your shelter area away from damage.
• Work with your neighbors for a quicker recovery. Stay calm and lend a hand to others.
• Be prepared for aftershocks.
• Plan for evacuation in case events make this necessary. Leave written messages for other family members or searchers.
• Use gloves, wear heavy shoes, and have adequate and appropriate clothing available.

Safest Place in the House
During an earthquake, stay away from heavy furniture, appliances, large panes of glass, shelves holding heavy objects and masonry veneer (such as a fireplace). These items tend to fall or break and can injure you. Usually, a hallway is one of the safest places if it is not crowded with objects. Kitchens and garages tend to be the most dangerous. Also, know the safest place in each room. It will be difficult to move from one place to another during a severe earthquake.

Exits & Alternate Exits
Know the possible ways to exit your house and workplace in emergency situations.

Location of Shutoff Valves
Know the location of the shutoff valves for water, gas, and electricity, and how to operate the valves. If you are not sure, contact your utility company.

Elderly, Disabled, or Persons on Medication
These people may have difficulty moving around after an earthquake. Plan to have someone help them evacuate if necessary. They may need special foods or medications. Be sure to store several days’ worth of these items.

Persons Who Do Not Speak English
People who cannot speak English often rely on their family or friends for information. If they are separated during an earthquake, they may need help. Prepare emergency cards in English that include name, address and any special needs.

Pets
After an earthquake, you should be concerned with your personal safety before taking care of your pets. Storing extra food and water for pets is always a good idea. Keep pets in a secure place at home after an earthquake. If you evacuate, they will not be allowed in an emergency shelter.

Police & Fire
Know the locations and phone numbers of the nearest fire and police station. Contact them only for emergency response.

Shelter & Medical Care
After a damaging earthquake, emergency shelters, and temporary medical centers will be set up in your community. Contact your local office of Emergency Services to find out the plans for your area.

Community Assistance
It may be several days before outside assistance arrives. Know your neighbors and their skills. You may be able to help each other after an earthquake. Be prepared to assist outside your neighborhood.

Family Plan
Decide where and how your family will reunite. Choose a location outside your neighborhood where family members can reunite if unable to return home. Choose a person outside the immediate area to contact if family members are separated. Long distance phone service will probably be restored sooner than local service. Do not use the phone immediately after an earthquake to reunite your family.

Plan for Children
Know the policies of the school or daycare center your children attend. Make plans to have someone pick them up if, after an earthquake, you are unable to do so.

Plan Responsibilities
Develop a plan with your family, friends, and neighbors assigning specific responsibilities to each person. Including children when assigning responsibilities will help calm their fears and make them feel useful. Remember that it may be difficult to get around after an earthquake, so each person’s task should be related to where he or she may be.