Preparing for Disaster: Earthquakes

5/15/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared for an earthquake!

Earthquakes can happen anywhere at any time. Many people don’t know this, but most of the U.S. is at a moderate to high risk for earthquakes. That is why it is important to prepare.

TIPS TO PREPARE FOR AN EARTHQUAKE

-Properly mount all wall decor to avoid extra injury.

-Make sure all heavy items are away from beds and couches to lessen the chance of injury.

-Secure all light fixtures.

-Have an emergency kit ready and easily accessible.

-Do practice drills with your family, so everyone knows safe areas and how to drop, cover, and hold.

TIPS TO HELP DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

-Try to stay calm.

-Stay away from anything that can shatter, such as windows or glass.

-Drop, cover, and hold onto something sturdy.

-If you are indoors, stay inside until the shaking stops, then exit with stairs, not elevators.

-If you are outdoors, find a spot with nothing above you, drop to the ground, and stay until the shaking stops.

-If you are in a car, keep your seatbelt on, and pull over to an open area, avoiding bridges, power lines, and street lights if possible. Stay until the shaking stops, then drive with caution.

TIPS TO HELP AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

-Aftershocks can occur anytime after an earthquake, so be cautious. If there is an aftershock, drop, cover, and hold on just as if it were another earthquake.

-Clean up any flammable liquids or spilled medications as soon as possible.

-Be careful when opening closet doors or drawers, because some things may have shifted.

-Stay updated and informed through the news or radio.