Simple Steps to Keep You and Your Loved Ones Safer in an Earthquake
While there is nothing you can do to prevent a major earthquake, there are several things you can do to keep your loved ones and possessions safer. The energy earthquakes release cause disruptions on the earth’s surface that cause rolling and shaking with a force that can move even large and heavy objects. With that in mind, below are a few things you can do to be prepared and minimize injury and damage in the event of an earthquake.
Basic Earthquake Preparedness List
No-cost tasks:
Move large or heavy objects to lower shelves near the floor
Move items that can fall (including large furniture) away from spaces where you and your loved ones spend a significant amount of time, such as beds and seating areas
Move unstable or heavy objects away from escape routes and doors
Store breakable items like china and glass jars in low and closed cabinets
Know where your electric fuse, water service shut-off, natural gas shut-off, and circuit breaker box are. You may need to shut them off after an earthquake.
Move flammable liquids to secure areas in your shed or garage.
Design a disaster plan for yourself and loved ones
Low-cost tasks:
Secure your water heater to a wall using metal straps
Secure top-heavy appliances and furniture to the walls
Hang pictures and mirrors on closed hooks
Have a Plan:
Design a disaster plan for you and your loved ones. Decide how you’ll communicate if disaster strikes. Your earthquake emergency plan can used in other emergencies such as fire, flood, or tornado. It’s also prudent to have a well-stocked emergency kit that contains medications, extra batteries, bottled water, shelf-stable snacks, and other essential items that your family including pets may need.