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Before An Earthquake

How well you, your family and your home survive an earthquake often depends upon how well you prepare beforehand.Develop a family and neighborhood earthquake plan.The following checklist will help you get started:

Prepare an emergency kit of food,water, and supplies including a flashlight, portable battery operated radio, batteries, medicines, first aid kit, money and clothing.

Know the safe spots in each room—under sturdy tables, desks, or against interior walls.

Know the danger spots—near windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.

Conduct practice drills so you and your family know the safe locations in your home.

Decide how and where your family will reunite if separated during a quake.

Choose an out-of-state friend or relative who family members can call after the quake to report their whereabouts and conditions.

Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation.)

Learn how to shut off gas,water, and electricity in case the lines are damaged.SAFETY NOTE: Do not attempt to relight the gas pilot. Call the utility company.

Check chimneys, roofs,walls and foundations for stability.Make sure your house is bolted to its foundation.

Secure your water heater and major appliances as well as tall, heavy furniture, hanging plants, mirrors and picture frames—especially those over beds.

Keep breakables, heavy objects, flammable or hazardous liquids such as, paints, pest sprays and cleaning products, in secured cabinets or on lower shelves.

Organize your neighborhood to be self-sufficient after a quake. Would you be ready to ride it out if an earthquake hit today? With some basic planning and thinking ahead, preparing your home or

workplace for an earthquake is easy.