In this article we will try to give you some steps to how to prepare for an earthquake before, during and after. Living in an earthquake zone makes it even more important that you are prepared and informed. There are certain steps you can take to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe and try to minimize the risk of injury, damage, or loss after an earthquake.

The first step, and we believe it is the most important, is how to prepare in advance for an earthquake. Once a hit is not the time to prepare, then it becomes something you have to deal with. Preparing ahead of time gives you peace of mind, less anxiety if one strikes, and the right supplies for you and your loved ones if needed.

How to prepare for an earthquake in advance

Before an earthquake here are some ideas for you to do and consider:

  • Have a survival kit for everyone in your household. Everyone in your household should know where they are kept.
  • Have water stored in case the water supply is in danger. A box of Datrex hydration bags is great for this because they have a 5 year shelf life! They recommend three gallons of water per person.
  • Have extra foods that are easily accessible and can be easily prepared in case of a power outage. Datrex Meal Bars are good to have on hand. They also have a shelf life of 5 years.
  • Have a battery-operated radio and a flashlight with extra batteries. Keep a flashlight, or glow sticks, and a sturdy pair of shoes by your bedside.
  • Attach shelves, bookcases, mirrors, and wall hangings to the walls. (at Home Depot or Lowe’s try Quake putty)
  • Secure TVs and other electronic devices with flexible nylon straps. (at Home Depot or Lowe’s)
  • Secure your collectibles and breakables with Quake Putty (at Home Depot or Lowe’s)
  • Strap your water heater, refrigerator, water dispensers, and oven with straps (at Home Depot or Lowe’s)
  • Learn and teach everyone in your family where and how to turn off gas, water, and electricity. If you don’t have the correct tools to do this, Simple Safety sells this tool. Remember that you need a professional to turn the gas back on.
  • Install flexible pipe fittings to prevent water or gas leaks.
  • Create your own disaster preparedness plan for your family. Include the phone number of an out-of-state family member or friend as a contact person in case you get separated. Pick a room or place to reconnect after an earthquake.
  • Don’t forget your pet! They will also need supplies. It is recommended not to hold them during an earthquake, they could become aggressive. They say an animal will naturally take cover.
  • Inform babysitters and caregivers of your family plan.
  • PRACTICE THE PLAN in how to prepare before an earthquake. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE AN ADEQUATE PLAN FOR HOME, WORK AND SCHOOL OR IN THE BETWEEN! THEN PRACTICE AGAIN.

During an earthquake, consider and practice:

  • You should already know your safe place in your home or in the room you’re in: drop to the floor under a very sturdy desk or behind something very sturdy (like a sofa?) that will take the weight of anything that falls about you. This should not be next to an outside wall, windows, or doors. Wait until I finish.
  • DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON!! Practice with the kids a couple of times a year.
  • If you are in bed, get on the floor with the pillow over your head.
  • Stay away from buildings, streetlights, and power lines if you are outside when it happens.
  • DO NOT GO NEAR POWER LINES.
  • If you are in your car, pull over to a clear spot as soon as possible and stay inside the vehicle.
  • If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from trees, buildings, and power lines.
  • If you get trapped under debris, try not to kick up too much dust, and if you’re near the pipes, hit them.

After an earthquake something to do, consider and practice:

  • Check yourself for injuries and then check others. Provide first aid for any injuries if necessary. Protect yourself and your family members by wearing long pants, sturdy shoes, and work gloves.
  • Avoid elevators.
  • You already know where the fire extinguisher is (right?), so put out any small fires you find.
  • Shut off and throttle (you know where that is right? You know where the tool is right?)
  • Open cabinets carefully as items move and could fall and injure you.
  • Text instead of calling – you’re more likely to get through!
  • Inspect your home for damage. Take everyone out if you find it’s not safe.
  • Check on neighbors and friends.
  • Expect aftershocks! Remember to LIE DOWN, COVER AND HOLD ON whenever you feel one. These can be just as dangerous as an earthquake itself.

Remember, an earthquake can strike at any time without warning. With the preparation and practice that you and your family do, you can prevent injury or even death during an earthquake. being equipped in how to prepare for an earthquake IT CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE!