How to Prepare for Earthquake Traffic

Video Transcript

"Some of you may live in earthquake country, like California or other parts of the nation where we do get some tremors. Here are some pointers on what to do in case of an earthquake...even if you are visiting an earthquake area. And part of it is preparation. You know, just like you do at home. You know, you've heard it all. You carry a radio, a flashlight, extra shoes is something a lot of people don't think about. But in a car, it helps because you never know when you may have to hoof it; the road will be closed. And again, a flashlight will come in handy at night. But what do you do when you are behind the wheel and an earthquake hits; something that worries a lot of people. The first thing you do is you slow down; and I won't say immediately, but you slow down. Take your foot off the gas. Bring your car to a hault. Pull over to the right. And man, whatever you do...do not park beneath an overpass. We all know the stories of what happened in the '94 quake in California. So avoid overpasses and underpasses. In other words, you don't want to stop on a bridge. Pull to the side of the road, because I guarantee you when the earthquake hits and you are in the car, it's bouncing around. Keep both hands on the wheel. Just guide your car over. Don't jam on your brakes either. That will cause problems; again, you'll lose control. Just gradually pull over. When you do stop, don't park near any trees. Make sure there's nothing above you. You don't want anything falling on you. Remain in your car. Turn on the radio and listen to the traffic reports. I guarantee you the news stations will tell you what to do. If you are on the freeway and you have got a chance to get off, do so. Get onto a surface street. Again, don't park near anything overhead. And then afterwards, listen to your radio and they'll give you advice on how to get back onto the freeway or finish your trip home."