Place flashlights all over the house and in the glove box of your car.
Keep several fire extinguishers around the house to fight small fires.
Be sure to have a first aid kit. Everyone should know basic first aid and CPR.
Plan in advance how you will evacuate and where you will go. Do not plan on driving as roadways will likely be damaged.
During the Earthquake
If you are in a building, get beneath a sturdy table, cover your head, and hold on.
Stay away from windows, mirrors, and large furniture.
If the building is structurally unsound, get outside as fast as possible.
If you are outside, run to an open area away from buildings and power lines that may fall.
If you are in a car, stay in the car and stay away from structures that might collapse, such as overpasses, bridges, or buildings.
After the Earthquake
Be aware that aftershocks are likely.
Avoid dangerous areas like hillsides that may experience a landslide.
Turn off water and power to your home.
Use your phone only if there is an emergency. Many people will be trying to get through to emergency services.
Be prepared to wait for help or instructions. Assist others as necessary.
Lesson Summary
A person standing in an open field in an earthquake will almost certainly be safe. Nearly all earthquake danger is from buildings falling, roadways collapsing, or from the fires and tsunami that come after the shaking stops.
Communities can prepare for earthquakes by requiring that buildings be earthquake safe and by educating citizens on how to prepare.
Individuals and households can prepare in two ways: by making sure that their house and its contents are not a hazard and by being ready to live independently for a few days.
