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Preparing for an Earthquake: Take Action Now!

In this piece, we’ll advise on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. Your level of preparation and awareness should increase if you live in an area prone to earthquakes. After an earthquake, you and your loved ones can take measures to protect yourselves and reduce the likelihood of harm.

Preparation for an earthquake is the first and, in our opinion, most vital step. Once one hits, it’s too late to make plans; you’ll have to deal with the aftermath. If you and your loved ones have taken the time to prepare for a disaster, you may rest easy knowing that you have what you need in an emergency.

Preparing Your Home for an Earthquake

Here are some things to remember and things to do before an earthquake:

Make sure everyone in your family has access to a survival kit. The location of these should be known to everyone living in your home.
If there is a water supply problem, be prepared by stocking up. Datrex water pouches, with their 5-year shelf life, are perfect for this. Every individual should drink three gallons of water every day.
It would be best if you stocked up on readily available, easily-made food during a power outage. Keep some Datrex energy bars on hand. They can be stored for up to five years.
Bring along a radio and a flashlight that both run on batteries, as well as spare batteries. A pair of durable shoes and a flashlight or light sticks should be kept close to your bed.
Hang pictures, put up shelves, hang mirrors, etc. Quake putty (available at Home Depot and Lowe’s)
Flexible nylon straps can be used to secure televisions and other electronic devices. (at Lowe’s or Home Depot)
Buy some Quake Putty from Home Depot or Lowe’s to secure your valuables and fragile items.
Straps can be purchased from places like Home Depot or Lowe’s and used to secure your water heater, refrigerator, dispenser, and furnace.
Everyone in your household should be familiar with the locations of the main shut-off switches for utilities. If you don’t have the right equipment for the job, Simple Safety sells what you need. Always call a professional if you need the gas turned back on.
Flexible pipe fittings should be used to prevent water or gas from leaking.
Develop a strategy to protect your loved ones in an emergency. In case you get separated, having the contact information for someone who isn’t local is a good idea. After an earthquake, find a quiet area to regroup.
Your pet needs to come, too! They will also require materials. It’s best not to grasp onto them because they can become hostile if the ground starts shaking. They think it’s in an animal’s nature to seek shelter.
Share your family’s plans with any caregivers, including babysitters.
Prepare for an earthquake by running through drills. FIND THE RIGHT BALANCE BETWEEN YOUR HOME, WORK, and STUDY PLANS! THEN REPEAT THE TRAINING.
Things to think about, plan for, and do in the event of an earthquake:

You should be familiar with the location of your home’s or room’s safe spot, where you can go low enough to hide under a desk or behind an object (a couch?) that can withstand the weight of anything that might fall on it. This shouldn’t be near any windows or doors that lead outside. Just ride it out till it’s over.
HALT, COVER, AND DROP! Throughout the year, schedule a few practice sessions with kids.
Get out of bed and put a pillow over your head to protect yourself from the cold.
If you must be outdoors while this occurs, stay away from nearby buildings, lighting, or electrical lines.
PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM ELECTRIC LINES.
If you’re driving, pull over to the side of the road as quickly as possible and stay inside the car.
If you must be outside, do so in a spot free of obstructions like trees, buildings, or power lines.
Be careful not to create too much dust by digging out from behind the rubble, and if you can get to some pipes, tap on them for air.
Things to think about, do, and practice after an earthquake:

In case of injury, first inspect yourself, then the others. If there are any injuries, administer first aid. Wear long pants, work boots, and gloves to safeguard yourself and your loved ones.
Stay out of the lifts.
If you discover any tiny flames, you should use the fire extinguisher (which you should already know where to get).
Do you know where the gas and power switches are suitable? The tool is just where you left it.
Be careful when opening cabinets since contents may shift and fall on you.
It’s better to send a text message than make a phone call.
Check for damage to your house. If it seems dangerous, everyone should leave.
Make sure your friends and family are okay.
Aftershocks are likely. If you ever feel an earthquake coming on, remember to DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON. These are sometimes as dangerous as an actual earthquake.
Remember that there is no way to predict when an earthquake may occur. If you and your family are ready for an earthquake, you can lessen the likelihood of severe injury or death. Knowing what to do in an earthquake’s aftermath can be crucial.

Prepare for an earthquake by having all necessary items on hand. Find additional resources to help you become ready for an earthquake.

linda