Earthquakes - Being Safe & Prepared

What YOU Need to Know!

California geology officials have released an updated state seismic activity map that they hope will improve earthquake preparedness and construction decisions. The map, which had not been updated since 1994, includes more than 50 surface fault lines discovered over the past two decades.  Do you know what to do when the rumbling begins? Get prepared before you and your family are caught off-guard so you know you are ready for  before, during and after.

Plan NOW to be safe during an earthquake:

• Practice "drop, cover, and hold on."
• Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy desks and tables.
• Learn how to protect yourself no matter where you are when an earthquake strikes.

 Plan NOW to respond after an earthquake:

• Keep shoes and a working flashlight next to each bed.
• Get a fire extinguisher for your home.
• Teach everyone in your household to use emergency whistles and/or to knock three times repeatedly if trapped. Rescuers searching collapsed buildings will be listening for sounds.
• Identify the needs of household members and neighbors with special requirements or situations, such as use of a wheelchair, walking aids, special diets, or medication.
• Take a Red Cross first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training course. Learn
• Know the location of utility shutoffs and keep needed tools nearby. Make sure you know how to turn off the gas, water, and electricity to your home. Only turn off the gas if you smell or hear leaking gas.
• Install smoke alarms and test them monthly. Change the battery once a year, or when the alarm emits a "chirping" sound (low-battery signal).
• Work with your neighbors to identify who has skills and resources that will be useful in an emergency, and who may need special attention (children, elderly, disabled, etc.)
• Check with your city or county to see if there is a Community Emergency Response Team  (CERT) in your area. If not, ask how to start one.

Plan NOW to communicate and recover after an earthquake:

• Select a safe place outside of your home to meet your family or housemates after the shaking stops.
• Designate an out-of-area contact person who can be called by everyone in the household to relay information.
• Provide all family members with a list of important contact phone numbers.
• Determine where you might live if your home cannot be occupied after an earthquake or other disaster.
• Know about the earthquake plan developed by your children's school or day care. Keep your children's school emergency release card current.
• Keep copies of essential documents, such as identification, insurance policies, and financial records in a secure, waterproof container in your disaster supply kit. Include a household inventory (a list and photos or video of your belongings). Financial recovery planning resources are listed at www.daretoprepare.org
• Have packed kits containing prescription medication
• Have enough leashes or carriers for pets

Have occasional earthquake "drills" to practice your plan. Share your plan with people who take care of your children, pets, or home.