Preparing for an Earthquake

January 27th, 2010

The sudden strike of an earthquake can catch many off guard. For those that live in earthquake prone areas, preparing ahead of time will keep a person as safe as possible during the turmoil that the earthquake brings.

Develop an Emergency Plan

When an unexpected event happens, many are confused and do not know what to do. Having a set disaster plan in place can help members of the family get to safety.

Do research on local emergency management (American Red Cross, City Disaster Services, etc) systems and know what their disaster protocols are.

Teach children about the different communication sources available such as 9-1-1, and how to work a battery operated radio in order to listen for emergency information. Additionally, all family members should know how to turn off the home utilities (emergency, gas and water).

Have an emergency plan in place. This will help family members know exactly where to go and what to do. The emergency plan should have a meeting place designated in the event that family members are separated. Additionally, having a central contact outside of the disaster area that can relay messages can help a family stay in touch if separated.

Look for any hazards in the home. Do as much preparation as possible to the home in order to secure the area as much as possible.

Place heavy or bulkier items on lower shelves.
Cabinets and pantries where breakable items are stores should have latches on them. Additionally, any poisonous material, such as fertilizers or pesticides should be stored in a locked area as well.
Secure shelves to walls.
Brace overhead light fixtures.
Repair any defective electrical wiring or leaking gas connections. If there are damages done to the ceiling or foundation, get an expert opinion about any structural defects.
Secure the water heater by strapping it to wall studs.
Avoid hanging pictures and heavy mirrors over beds, couches or where people tend to sit.

Identify Safe Places Indoors and Outdoors. When an earthquake hits, people should stay inside. It is more dangerous outside, than in.

Indoor safety zones during an earthquake include:

Hiding under sturdy furniture.
Against a wall.
Away form where glass could shatter (windows, mirrors, pictures) or from heavy furniture such as bookcases that could fall over.

Outdoor safety zones include:

In the open, away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines. Elevated expressways, and bridges should also be avoided.

Disaster Food Supplies

Water and Food

Store 3 days worth of potable water in plastic containers. Potable water is water safe for human consumption. It is free of disease causing microorganisms, poisonous substances, minerals, organic matter, chemical, biological and radioactive substances. Another method is to freeze water in plastic soda containers. FEMA recommends that a person should have 1 gallon of water per person for at least 3 days.

Stockpile a 3 day supply of non perishable items such as canned goods, dehydrated foods, high energy foods such as granola bars, power bars, trail mix and cereals. Try and find foods that do not require a lot of water to prepare them. Certain family members may need special foods such as infant formula, baby food or needs for someone who is diabetic.

Medical Supplies

Keeping a well stocked medical supply can come in handy if someone has a injury. First aid kits can be assembled at home and include all of the basic first aid items that may be needed. A list of complete first aid items can be seen here.

Disaster Tools

Pre-packed disaster tools in a centralized location can be a life saver if a person needs them in a time sensitive manner.

Flash lights
Batteries
Propane stove
Fire extinguisher (ABC variety)
Battery operated radio
Can opener (non electric)
Duct tape
Multipurpose tool
Waterproof matches
Tube tent
Extra cash
Trash bags
Signal flare
Wrench to shot off gas appliances and water
Pliers
Map
Survival manual
Whistle
Compass
Plastic cups and plates

Bug Out Bag

In the case that a person has to evacuate, having a prepared 72 hour kit or bug out bag will expedite the process of leaving as well as keeping things running as smoothly as possible. A 72 hour bag should all items necessary to survive for 3 days. When preparing a bag keep the main surviving points is mind (water, food, shelter, clothing). Having a separate bug out bag for the vehicle will also come in handy in the event that someone has to leave their home immediately.

Related Categories: General

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