Guidelines to Help Protect Your Family During an Earthquake
Here are some guidelines to help protect your family during an earthquake or natural disaster
Prepare an emergency kit:
Put together a disaster supply kit that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and a portable radio.
Keep this kit in an easily accessible location.
Create an emergency plan
Discuss and establish a family emergency plan.
Determine escape routes from your home and establish a meeting point in case you get separated.
Assign responsibilities to each family member, such as turning off utilities or grabbing the emergency kit.
Secure your home
Identify and fix any potential hazards in your home that could cause injuries during an earthquake.
Secure heavy furniture, shelves, and appliances to the walls, and ensure that pictures and mirrors are properly hung.
Know safe spots
Identify safe spots in each room of your home where family members can take cover during an earthquake.
These spots should be away from windows, heavy furniture, and objects that could fall.
Teach family members how to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On"
In the event of an earthquake, instruct everyone to drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture (such as a table), and hold on until the shaking stops.
Remind family members not to run outside during the shaking.
Stay informed
Keep a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to stay informed about the latest updates and instructions from local authorities.
Follow their guidance and evacuate if necessary.
Practice drills
Regularly conduct earthquake drills with your family members to practice the emergency plan and ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an earthquake.
Stay calm and reassure others
During an earthquake, stay calm and reassure your family members.
Encourage them to follow the emergency plan and remind them that they are safe.