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.