Earthquakes can strike without warning, but knowing how to prepare and respond can greatly reduce the risk of injury and damage. This guide provides essential safety tips to help you stay safe before, during, and after an earthquake.
Before an Earthquake
1. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Essentials:
Store at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and water.
Medical Supplies:
Include a first aid kit, medications, and personal hygiene items.
Tools and Supplies:
Flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
Documents:
Keep important documents (ID, insurance papers, medical records) in a waterproof container.
2. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Meeting Place:
Establish a safe, easily accessible location for family members to gather.
Communication:
Designate an out-of-town contact for family members to call in case of separation.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Assign roles to each family member for preparedness and response tasks.
3. Secure Your Home
Furniture and Appliances:
Anchor heavy furniture, appliances, and other items to walls.
Shelves:
Secure shelves and bookcases to walls to prevent items from falling.
Utilities:
Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity, and teach family members how to do the same.
4. Educate Yourself and Others
Training:
Take a basic first aid and CPR course. Learn about earthquake preparedness and survival techniques.
School and Workplace:
Ensure your children’s schools and your workplace have earthquake safety plans in place.
During an Earthquake
1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
Drop:
Get down on your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
Cover:
Protect your head and neck with your arms, and take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture if possible.
Hold On:
Stay in your protective position until the shaking stops. If you’re under furniture, hold on to it to keep it in place.
2. If Indoors
Stay Inside:
Remain indoors. Do not run outside during the shaking.
Avoid Windows:
Move away from glass, windows, and heavy objects that could fall.
3. If Outdoors
Find Open Space:
Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines.
Drop to the Ground:
Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
4. If Driving
Pull Over Safely:
Pull over to a safe area away from overpasses, bridges, and tunnels.
Stay in the Vehicle:
Remain inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
5. If Trapped
Stay Calm:
Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you.
Shout Only as a Last Resort:
Shouting can use up your air supply; instead, make noise intermittently.
