How to Prepare Your Family for an Earthquake

If you live in an earthquake-prone area, it's wise to prepare your family well in advance for the next "Big One." These guidelines follow the recommendations of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services and Pacific Gas & Electric.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Clothes
• Batteries
• Batteries
• Portable Radios
• Batteries
• Bottled Water
• Fire Extinguishers
• Fire Extinguishers
• Pipe Wrenches

1. Put together an emergency kit that includes food and water to last a week, an adjustable pipe wrench for turning off gas and water, a fire extinguisher, portable radio, batteries, flashlight, and first aid supplies.

2. Remember to stash backup prescription medication and extra pairs of glasses. (See Related eHow "How to Pack an Emergency Kit for Your House.")

3. Note all safe spots in each room, such as doorways or under sturdy tables and desks.

4. Know the danger spots, such as fireplaces, windows, mirrors and hanging objects.

5. Point out safety exits and keep those areas clear.

6. Make sure your family knows where emergency supplies are located.

7. Check to be sure that everyone knows where and how to turn off electrical, gas, and water main valve and switches.

8. Establish how and where your family will reunite if separated during the quake.

9. Know the policies of the school or daycare center your children attend; appoint someone to pick them up if you cannot go yourself.

10. Appoint a friend or relative out of the area who your family members can contact after an earthquake to report their whereabouts or conditions.

11. Conduct earthquake drills with your family every six months.

Tips & Warnings

• Warm clothing and extra sleeping bags come in handy. Games, toys, and books help keep young ones comforted and entertained. Keep what you can packed with your emergency kit.
• Turning on light switches or lighting candles can ignite leaking gas - opt for flashlights instead.

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[survivalist]

on 6/25/2009 I would also add a product called "LifeCaps" to your emergency preparedness kit. They are a survival pill designed to sustain life in an emergency situation. You can find them at http://LifeCaps.net. I found that if you use coupon code GOCAPS at check out, you will save 33%.

[G1_TheReturned]

on 4/11/2007 This is a wonderful tip guide, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

on 11/22/2005 Keep one or two extra-long pry bars at home and at work. You can use these for leverage to lift beams, furniture, and other items that might fall on people or pets during an earthquake.

on 11/22/2005 Have disposable face masks (the cheap, elastic band type that covers the nose and mouth). Dust from crumbled buildings and smoke from resultant fires are both inevitable. Also, help protect your prescription eyewear with clear safety goggles, the fit-over type.