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Earthquakes can be devastating disasters, but
everyone who takes appropriate earthquake safety precautions can
minimize damages, injuries, and other potential quake concerns. It can
help to have valuable tips on ways to keep your family safe before,
during and after a quake.
Taking Earthquake Safety Precautions
There is no effective warning system for earthquakes, which makes
preliminary precautions even more critical. At the same time, knowing
how to behave when a quake strikes and what to do after the event is
just as important to staying safe.
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Before an Earthquake
There are many things families and individuals can do to prepare for an
earthquake, including the following:
Install latches on cupboard doors to prevent them from opening during a
quake.
Use non-skid shelf liners for kitchen and bathroom cupboards, medicine
cabinets, and closet shelves.
Store heavy items or glassware in lower cabinets so they do not become
dangerous projectiles.
Update home insurance policies to adequately cover building costs,
possession replacement, and injury deductibles.
Secure large appliances such as refrigerators, water heaters, air
conditioners, and other bulky items with straps, bolts, and other
stabilizing methods.
Be sure both old and new buildings meet earthquake construction
requirements.
Do not put heavy artwork, mirrors, or shelves over beds.
Firmly secure bookcases, artwork, mounted televisions and other objects
to withstand as much shaking as possible.
Take clear photos of valuables as a record for insurance purposes.
Prepare an earthquake emergency kit with non-perishable food, bottled
water, copies of important documents (birth certificates, prescriptions,
insurance papers, etc.), flashlights, first aid materials, blankets,
spare glasses, and other essential items and store it where it will be
easily accessible in case of a quake.
Keep cell phones charged and replace emergency kit supplies as necessary
to keep them usable.
Plan alternative commuting routes in case an earthquake damages roads.
Set up a family meeting location in a safe area.
Teach all family members basic first aid, how to behave during a quake,
and what to do after a quake.
During an Earthquake
Earthquakes can last just a few seconds or as long as several minutes,
and knowing how to react during the quake can help prevent injuries:
Immediately seek a safe location such as in a doorway (if you live in an
old, adobe house that is not reinforced), beneath a table or desk, or
along an interior wall away from windows or hazardous objects.
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Cover the back of your head and your eyes to minimize injury from flying
debris.
Do not take elevators during an earthquake.
If cooking, turn off heating elements immediately.
If outdoors, stay in open areas away from buildings, power lines, trees,
and other potential hazards.
If driving, stop quickly but safely and stay in the vehicle. Do not stop
near power lines, bridges, overpasses, or other potentially dangerous
locations.
Stay calm and brace yourself to keep your balance, sitting if possible.
After an Earthquake
Quick thinking after an earthquake hits can minimize immediate dangers.
Proper earthquake safety precautions after a tremor include the
following:
Be prepared for aftershocks, which may be stronger than the initial
jolt.
Tend injuries immediately and summon emergency assistance if necessary.
Check for structural damage, but do not enter a building that shows
damage or has visible cracks in the walls or foundation.
Wear shoes at all times to avoid stepping on broken glass.
Turn off gas, electricity, and water if damage is suspected or if
advised to do so by authorities.
Be cautious opening cabinets, cupboards, and closets in case items may
be poised to fall.
Keep phone lines clear for emergency use.
Be patient: It may take hours or days to restore all services depending
on the severity of the quake.
Additional Disasters to Prepare For
Earthquakes can trigger additional emergencies, and individuals should
also be prepared to contend with these related natural hazards:
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Tsunamis near coastal areas
Landslides or mudslides in mountainous regions
Fires if gas lines are ruptured or power lines spark blazes
Flooding if dams break or rivers are diverted
These hazards will vary based on where the earthquake hits and how
strong it is, but thorough safety precautions will address these
additional disasters if necessary.
Being Prepared Can Mean the Difference Between
Life and Death
An earthquake can be a terrifying event. By taking proper safety
precautions, you can help limit that terror through careful planning and
organization. Hold occasional earthquake drills so your family knows
exactly what they should do in the event a quake strikes. This will
increase the odds that everyone survives unharmed. |