Seven Steps for the Preparedness of an Earthquake

Evaluate and Secure the Home

• Begin by identifying and eliminating potential hazards in the home, which entails securing objects that could cause injury during an earthquake. Collectibles and electronic devices should be secured with non-damaging adhesives and straps, respectively. Place heavy and fragile items, as well as hazardous and flammable substances, on lower shelves. Secure picture frames and mirrors with closed hooks and earthquake putty. Equip kitchen cabinet doors with latches.

Create a Disaster Plan

• Identify safe spots inside the home, and agree on a safe meeting place to reunite with family members after an earthquake. Designate an out-of-area friend as a disaster contact that all members of the family should call after the quake. A flashlight and sturdy shoes should be within reach of every bed. It is also important to have an easily accessible fire extinguisher and know how to operate it.

Assemble Disaster Kits

• Families should create household disaster kits, as well as personal kits for each member. The former should include at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day, important documents, first aid supplies, flashlights or light sticks, a battery-operated radio and additional batteries, canned food, cooking utensils and a manual can opener, warm clothing, pet supplies, blankets and sleeping bags. Personal disaster kits should contain personal documents, cash, medications and spare eyeglasses, hygiene supplies, a whistle and snack food. Child kits should include comfort items such as toys. Everyone should keep a personal kit at home, at work and in the car. All kits should include enough supplies for three to five days.

Identify and Address Building Weaknesses

• Assess and correct any structural weaknesses in your home or building to increase its ability to withstand the shaking often caused by earthquakes. This may involve reinforcing masonry, strengthening cripple walls with plywood in homes with crawl spaces and replacing damaged foundations.

Protect Yourself

• During an earthquake, rather than stand under a doorway, the SCEC advises taking cover under a desk or table and holding on to it for the duration of the shaking. If you are outside, avoid bridges, tunnels, overpasses, trees, signs, power lines and light posts. Drivers should pull over and set the parking break. Stay away from windows and exterior walls, regardless of where you are.

Assess Injuries and Damages

• If you are injured in the earthquake, attempt to alert rescuers. If you are unhurt, attend to the injured by applying pressure to their wounds and beginning cardiopulmonary resuscitation if necessary. Call the fire department if you spot small fires, but try to put them out yourself in the meantime.

Follow Disaster Plan

• After the earthquake, follow your disaster plan. Tune into emergency broadcasts for information, and be prepared for potential aftershocks. Seek temporary shelter if you need to evacuate your home.