Earthquake Preparedness

By Jaycee Fox

Preparation is key when facing any type of natural disaster. Although preparation can help alleviate some of the fear, of course it doesn't solve all problems. One of the most recent earthquakes occurred on May 19, 2009 in Long Beach, California. It was a mild one; some shattering glass, but most importantly a reminder to those California residents to be prepared.
So how do we really prepare ourselves for an earthquake? Unfortunately, earthquakes come with no warning and can cause great damage in mere seconds. The San Francisco earthquake in 1989 did ten billion dollars worth of damage, and guess how long it lasted? Ten seconds. If you've been in such a situation -- unprepared -- the best times to prepare for the next one is immediately afterwards while your needs are fresh in your mind. So let's go over some steps we can take to better ready ourselves before, during, and after an earthquake.
BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE
1. Have the essential supplies ready:

• A 72 hour kit or survival kit. I'd recommend a backpack for each individual in the family -- that can easily be grabbed -- that contains food and water, along with blankets and an extra set of clothing.
• First aid kit.
• Necessary medications.
• Flashlight.
• Radio.
• Extra batteries for radio and flashlights.
• Waterproof matches.
• Generator.
• Baby wipes.
• Small denominations of cash. If power is out, how will you use your credit card?
• Manual can opener.
• Comfortable sneakers or hiking boots. Hazardous rubble such as broken glass is not a good fit with bare feet or flip-flops.
• Any extras beyond the essentials: A propane grill, camping supplies, an alternate method of transportation, such as a bicycle.

2. Prepare your home: What can I do ahead of time?

• Have instructions to turn off your utilities handy. Where are the emergency shut-offs for gas, electricity and water?
• Move heavy items to lower shelves.
• Secure heavy furniture.
• Secure mirrors and paintings and any other hanging items.
• Secure your water heater to the wall studs.
• Secure your home to the foundation if is hasn't been done. This should only be a problem with older homes.
• Brace your chimney.
• Keep flammable items away from potential fire hazards.

3. Make a plan: This is a necessary step that is often overlooked, but is especially important if you have dependents.

• Have a meeting point. With all the chaos, this will be one sure thing.
• Go over the safe zones in your home; where to hide during the quake. Obviously you want your children to know to stand clear of windows and anything heavy that may fall.
• Be educated about local emergency procedures and protocols.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Stay inside, keeping away from falling glass and debris. Try to find something to hide under, such as a solid table. If there is nothing to hide under, stay in a door frame or along the walls.
2. If you're cooking, turn off the stove.
3. If outside, move to a clear area, staying clear of power lines, big buildings and glass windows.
4. If you're driving, pull over and steer clear of trees, power lines and bridges. Stay in your vehicle.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Check for injuries and carry out any necessary first aid.
2. Don't use the phone unless it's a critical emergency as phone lines will be heavily used.
3. Shut off any utilities.
4. Put out any small fires with your fire extinguisher and if there's any smell of gas -- evacuate.
5. Leave your home or building if at all possible and especially if the structure has been compromised.
6. Expect aftershocks so be prepared.

Being prepared in such an event is always the wisest choice. It will enable you to keep a clear head and do what's necessary even with the unexpectedness of a quake.

Jaycee Fox is a writer. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three children. Visit her blog, www.jayceefox.blogspot.com, to see what she's written.