As officials in central Oklahoma assess for damage from the largest quake to hit the state since record-keeping began, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes® (FLASH)  — the country’s leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters — offers the following post-earthquake safety precautions.

“It’s important for consumers to take safety precautions after an earthquake has passed and to expect aftershocks,” says Leslie Chapman-Henderson. “Being aware of the risks of damage to your home will help to keep you and your family out of harms’ way,” she adds.

FLASH provides the following safety precautions:

• Don’t move injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.

• Turn on your TV or radio for emergency information and instructions.

• Check utilities for gas and/or water leaks or broken electrical connections.

• Be prepared to turn off utilities in the event they are damaged.

• Clean up medications, cleaning products and/or flammable liquids.

• Check food and water supplies.

• Open cabinets carefully to avoid objects falling out.

• Ensure water is safe to drink.

• DO NOT use matches in damaged areas until all gas lines are checked for leaks (keep flashlights and plenty of batteries at hand).

• Use a camera or camcorder to record thoroughly any damage done to your home before any repairs are attempted.

• Consider having professionals/licensed contractors inspect your home for damage and help in repairs. This includes electricians and professionals to inspect gas lines, remove uprooted trees and check plumbing.

• Remember that downed or damaged trees can contain power lines that can be hazardous.

• Use a camera or camcorder to thoroughly record damage to your home before repairs are attempted.

• Avoid driving as roads may be blocked.

• If you do leave your home, make sure that carry current identification. You may have to pass through identification checkpoints before being allowed access back to your home/neighborhood.

• Avoid sightseeing or entering damaged areas unnecessarily. You could be mistaken for a looter.

• Avoid downed power lines even if they look harmless.

• Avoid metal fences and other metal objects near downed lines.

For more consumer education information about earthquakes visit www.flash.org.