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Earthquake Guide: Prepare
You can put out a fire.
You can sandbag a flood.
You cannot stop an earthquake.
Learn how to protect your home,
family and workplace until the shaking stops.
• Survival kit checklist
Check for hazards at home
- Secure all heavy furniture that could topple, such as bookcases, china cabinets or wall units.
- Hang heavy pictures and mirrors away from beds, couches, and anywhere people sit.
- Keep breakables or heavy objects on bottom shelves.
 Secure a water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and bolting it to the floor.- Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.
- Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks.
- Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom shelves.
Define Your Safety Zone
Do you have a Family Disaster Plan?
- Know the safe spots in each room:
- Against inside walls
- Under sturdy tables or desks
- In stout doorways
- Know the danger spots:
- Windows
- Hanging objects
- Fireplaces
- Tall, unsecured furniture.
- Practice earthquake drills, putting yourself in the safety zone. This is especially important for children to know and do.
Next: Respond and survive
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