Earthquake Preparedness
In addition to the Preparedness Checklist earthquake specific preparations should be made such as:
- Locate the safe places in your home(i.e. under heavy desks or tables, away from glass or tall furniture, near interior wall)
- Leave a sturdy pair of shoes by each person’s bed (because of broken glass and other sharp objects on the ground)
We mention in the preparedness checklist link above to strap down the hot water heater. One of the primary reasons is to protect the gas line from breaking and starting a fire which is the most common earthquake hazard, so secure all gas appliances. Be on the lookout for fires!
Other ways to make an earthquake “safe” home:
- Secure bookcases, china cabinets and other tall furniture to wall studs.
- Place heavy objects close to the ground.
- Install latches on cabinets
- Store weed killers and flammable objects in low cabinets with strong latches.
- Install flexible gas and water lines to avoid breakage and leaks
If you are outside during an earthquake stay back from buildings, light poles and other objects that can be damaged and fall; large open areas are the safest.
If you are near the coast move quickly to higher ground as the earthquake may cause a Tsunami to come ashore.
After an earthquake examine your house with much caution. Inspect each room, smell for gas leaks (avoid smoking inside buildings), look for fires, examine ceiling fixtures that may yet fall, open doors and cabinets carefully, and carefully clean-up spilled liquids. And expect aftershocks.
Action Steps:
