Earthquakes can occur anywhere in the US. They also happen without warning.
Preparing for an Earthquake
- If you live in an area which is on a Fault zone, then make sure your family develops and earthquake drill. You should know which areas of your home are the safest and the most dangerous.
- Bolt furniture items such as bookcases and heavy furniture to the wall or floor and place heavier items on the lowest shelved. Glass bottles should be stored in low cabinets that can be kept closed and/or locked.
- Used closed loop hoops to hand pictures and plants so they do not fall off of the wall.
- Make sure that you and your family members know how to shut off the utilities in case of an earthquake.
- If you are indoors, take cover under a sturdy desk or table and shield your head and face from falling debris. Stay away from doors and anything that can fall.
- If you are outdoors then move away from things such as trees, buildings, and power lines.
- If you are in a moving car, pull alongside the road quickly and safely. Stay away from areas that could break, fall, or crumble.
- Do not use items that could fall and catch fire. Examples would be candles, matches and other flames.
- If you are inside a high-rise building, get underneath a desk. Do not try to rush to exit the building because stairways me be full or people or even broken.
When the Shaking Stops
- When the shaking stops, you will still feel some aftershocks. They are small trembles that are usually much small than the main part of the earthquake.
- Check others for injuries and if you do notice someone is hurt, do not move them unless they could be hurt further if not moved to a safe place. Be prepared to administer first aide.
- If you see small fires then put them out. For larger ones, alert neighbors and call 911.
- Check thoroughly for damage and hazardous conditions.