Earthquake Preparedness

An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the Earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath its surface. This shaking can cause buildings and bridges to collapse; disrupt gas, electric, and phone service, cause landslides, avalanches, and sometimes trigger flash floods, fires, and huge, destructive ocean waves (tsunamis).
Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning.

Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake.

Before An Earthquake:

• Fasten shelves securely to walls
• Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves
• Store breakable items in low, closed cabinets with latches
• Hang heavy items away from beds, couches, and anywhere people may sit
• Brace overhead light fixtures
• Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections
• Secure a water heater by strapping it to wall studs and bolting it to the floor
• Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations
• Store pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches
• Identify safe places in each room (under sturdy furniture, against an inside wall, away from glass, mirrors, and heavy furniture)
• Keep disaster supplies on hand (flashlight, batteries, radio, first aid kit, emergency food and water, non-electric can opener, essential medicines, cash and credit cards, sturdy shoes)
  

During An Earthquake:

Indoors:

• Stay inside
• Take cover under a piece of heavy furniture or against an inside wall and hold on

Outdoors:

• Move into the open, away from buildings, street lights, and utility wires
• Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops

In A Vehicle:

• Stop immediately and stay in the vehicle
• Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires
• Proceed with caution after the shaking has stopped. Avoid bridges or ramps.

After An Earthquake:

• Be prepared for aftershocks
• Help injured or trapped persons
• Listen to radio or television for latest emergency information
• Stay out of damaged buildings

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