National Preparedness Month Tip of the Day: Planning and holding earthquake drills will help safeguard your family.

Before an Earthquake Strikes: 

• Plan and hold earthquake drills with your family.
• Choose a location where family members will meet if separated during the quake.

Make Your Home Safer:

• Strap water heaters, appliances and TVs to wall studs.
• Secure pictures, mirrors and ornaments to the wall with appropriate fasteners.
• Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water services.
• Assemble disaster survival kits to last at least 72 hours for each person in the house.
• Check with local emergency managers for additional tips and safety training.

During an Earthquake: 

• Keep calm. Expect the earthquake to last from a few seconds to a few minutes.
• If indoors, stay there until the shaking stops. Make sure to drop down to the floor and take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture or an interior wall. Hold onto the furniture and keep your position.
• If outdoors, move into an open area away from trees, buildings, utility wires or signs. Stay in the open until the shaking stops.

After an Earthquake: 

• Check for injuries.
• 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.