Earthquakes strike suddenly, and without warning.  Identifying potential hazards ahead of time can reduce injury or loss of life.  Here are some guidelines:

v     Develop a plan.  Discuss with your family members and instruct children what to do in the event they are at school.

v     You need to know

o       What to do during and after an earthquake

o       The safest place in your home

o       Exits and alternative exits at home and work

o       How to shut off gas, electricity and water

o       How to provide first aid, rescue people trapped under debris, find help for dire emergencies and assist others, especially the elderly and disabled.

o       Local school policy on release of children after an earthquake.

v     Store emergency supplies.  Medical aid, transportation, water, electricity and communication may be unavailable for days or weeks.  Be prepared to cake care of yourselves, and neighbors for at least three days minimum (longer in remote areas).

v     Make special provisions for elderly or disabled family members.

v     Make special previsions for pets, such as confinement to a room in your house, as most of the time they are not allowed in shelters.

If you have time, protect your belongings:

v     Move heavy items such as pictures, mirrors or tall dressers away from your bed.

v     Secure tall furniture with lag bolts to wall studs

v     Fasten shelves securely to walls

v     Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves

v     Put latches on cabinet doors

v     Store breakable items in low, closed cabinets

v     Brace overhead light fixtures

v     Secure propane tanks against overturning of sliding

v     Store potentially hazardous materials such as cleaners, fertilizers, chemicals, in appropriate containers and in sturdy cabinets fastened to the wall or floor

v     If you have above ground propane tanks:

o       Mount tank to a concrete pad, bolting down legs.

o       Install flexible hose between tank, supply line and home.

o       Clear area of objects that may fall, rupturing tank or supply line.

o       Keep a wrench tied on a cord near the shut-off valve.  Make sure family members know how to use it.

What to do during an earthquake:

v     If indoors, duck or drop down to floor takin cover under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture.  Hold and be prepared to move with it, remaining in position until ground stops shaking and it’s safe to move.  Avoid windows, fireplaces, wood stoves, heavy further or appliances.  In a crowded area, take cover and stay put.

v     If outside, get into the open, away from buildings and power lines.

v     If driving, remain in your car.  Stay away from bridges, tunnels or overpasses.  Move your car out of traffic, but avoid stopping under trees, light posts, power lines or signs.

v     In mountainous area, or unstable land, be alert to falling rock and debris.

v     If you are at the beach, move to higher ground

What to do after an earthquake:

v     Check for injuries, giving first aid as needed.  Move seriously injured persons only if they’re in immediate danger.  Call for assistance.

v     Check for hazards, avoiding unnecessary risks.  If you see any major damage, turn off gas, electricity and water until each has been properly inspected.  Do not touch downed power liens or objects in contact with them.  Do not expect telephones to work and do not use them except in extreme emergencies.  Be careful of fallen displaced objects when opening closets or cupboards.

v     Clean up potentially harmful materials that may have spilled.  Wear sturdy shoes to protect your feel from broken glass and debris.

v     Expect aftershocks.  Most are smaller than the main earthquake.  Stay our of already weakened and damaged homes