Earthquake Disaster Preparedness

History of earthquakes in your area:  Short story?

What plates or seismic activity affects your region?

What other utilities could be affected by the Earthquake?

Risk for Tsunami in your area?

BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE

• Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. (Click Here)
• Fasten shelves securely and place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
• Breakable items should be stored in low, closed cabinets with a latch.
• Heavy wall items should be attached securely and away from beds, couches, or anywhere people might be underneath.
• Brace overhead light fixtures and top-heavy lamps.
• Have defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections repaired by a qualified professional.
• Secure water heater, refrigerator, furnace and gas appliances with strapping or bolting. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic vibration shut-off valve installed.
• Keep cracks in ceiling or foundation repaired and check often for structural defects.
• Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products on bottom shelves in closed cabinets with a latch.
• Locate safest spot in each room under a sturdy table or against inside wall. No doorways.
• Hold family earthquake drills: Drop, cover and hold on.