One of the most unsettling things about earthquakes is that they can’t be reliably predicted. But if children and adults know what to do, they can make themselves safer. With earthquake preparedness on everyone’s mind after the tragedy in Haiti, we bring you our comprehensive guide on how to get your family ready for an earthquake, and what to do when one actually happens.
Getting Ready
Stay Informed
Though “earthquake preparedness” may not sound like an exciting way to spend an afternoon, taking a few hours to teach and practice basic earthquake safety with your family will go a long way. Teach children about the appropriate times to dial 911, and memorize which radio station to tune into for emergency information. Everyone in the family should know how and when to turn off the gas, electricity, and water in your home.
One of the most important pieces is preparing an emergency communication plan. It’s likely that family members will be separated during an earthquake, especially if parents are at work and children are at school. Pick a meeting place to reunite with your family, preferably somewhere outdoors and easy for everyone to reach.
Since it’s often easier to call long distance after a disaster, establish an out-of-state contact — either a relative or friend — that family members are required to call after an emergency. Everyone should have that person’s phone number and address committed to memory.
(Just a quick plug, but we here at Life360 offer an Emergency Messenger, which can reliably communicate with your family even when phone lines are down during emergency situations.)
Household Preparation
It’s also vital to have disaster supplies on hand, just in case. Here are recommendations about what you should have accessible at all times, according to FEMA:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- First aid kit and manual
- Emergency food and water
- Nonelectric can opener
- Essential medicines
- Cash and credit cards
- Sturdy shoes
FEMA also recommends a number of protective measures for your home. Any deep plaster cracks in ceilings or foundations need to be repaired. Similarly, making sure that any defective electrical wiring or leaky gas lines are fixed will keep earthquakes from exacerbating the problem. If possible, install flexible pipe fittings, which are more resistant to breakage. Also, bolt down major appliances, like refrigerators, water heater, and any gas appliances.
There are also a handful of simple things you can do without the help of a repairman or electrician. Strategically place large or heavy objects on lower shelves and fasten shelves, mirrors, and frames to the wall. Keep glass, china, and other things that could shatter on low shelves or in cabinets. Brace any top-heavy items, and anchor light fixtures. If you have anything toxic, like weed killers, pesticides, or anything flammable, store them securely in latched cabinets.
What to Do During an Earthquake
If you feel the ground shake or hear nearby objects rattling or tinkling remember: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
1. Take only a few steps to the safest possible location, as moving farther can increase the danger you face.
Outside: The best place is an open space away from power lines and tall trees. Lie flat and cover your head until the shaking stops.
Inside: The best places are under a door frame or something sturdy like a desk or strong table. If these objects move during the shaking, move with them. You may have to hold onto them with one hand. If you can’t find anything that will work, stand against an interior wall.
2. Cover your head and neck with your hands to protect them from anything that may fall on you. If you’re in bed, remain there and cover your head with a pillow.
3. Stay away from glass anything and everything, including windows and mirrors. Even a tremor can send glasses falling from shelves, and knock picture frames off the wall.
4. Avoid tall heavy objects in the home like refrigerators, water coolers and dressers. During a quake these can cause a load of damage if they fall.
5. Steer clear of high shelves, as these often house items that are prone to falling.
6. Keep your distance from fireplaces and other brick or stone items, which often fall during quakes.
7. Do not hold onto your pet as he/she may panic and injure you during when it tries to hide.
8. Stay where you are until the shaking stops. A large earthquake can have aftershocks, so wait a while before leaving your cover.
More Resources
- FEMA: What to Do Before an Earthquake
- FEMA: Are You Ready?
- USGS: Prepared
- San Francisco Chronicle: Make Your Own Preparedness Kit
Copyright © 2011 Life360. | All Rights Reserved.
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This is great info. We all think it can’t happen to us, or we will be fine but you still need to be prepared. Thanks!
Heads up-keep your preparedness kits off the ground! We had some great ones but mice ate our freeze-dried food and our mylar blankets!! Remember to check them.
Great information on earthquake preparedness. Many of us don't even think of preparing ourselves for the unthinkable, but as the article implies, it can be the difference between serious injuries and walking away without a scratch; The effect of an earthquake is so devastating that it also affects the earth's rotation
Great information on earthquake preparedness. Many of us don't even think of preparing ourselves for the unthinkable, but as the article implies, it can be the difference between serious injuries and walking away without a scratch; The effect of an earthquake is so devastating that it also affects the earth's rotation
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