Earthquakes Tips

Before the quake

Before an earthquake happens, secure all objects that may fall when the quake strikes.

If you have tall cabinets, use "L" brackets at the top and sides to anchor to the wall. Water heaters should be secured to the wall as well, as these can fall over disconnecting gas lines, electrical cords and spilling hot water on unsuspecting victims. Use either specially designed brackets or strong moving straps. Make sure these are anchored to the wall for minimum movement.

The kitchen should have special latches on cupboard doors to keep the contents inside. This prevents glassware from falling and breaking on floors, canned items from coming out and possibly hitting a victim on the head. Pots and pans can also cause injury by spilling out of cupboards. Special latches on the kitchen drawers keep them from coming open and spilling the contents on the floor.

I also recommend the refrigerater door be secured so milk, bottles, and other miscellaneous items will not spill out and be contained inside.

All overhead lamps and ceiling fans should be checked to make sure they are anchored well to the ceiling and will not come loose from the violent shaking.

Aquariums should be stabilized by putting a lip on the shelf where they sit keeping the tank from sliding off the shelf onto the floor. Water will slop out, but the tank will remain in place.

The best way to know what will need reinforcing is to walk thru the house and write down all that you see that would be a falling hazard or a cubpoard that will come open and spill its contents. Don't forget the garage and patio as well.

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Communication

Immediately following an earthquake, turn on a radio or television to get official emergency information. Remember to restrict your telephone calls to emergency aid requests only.

It is a good idea to have a friend who lives out-of-state, who will act as a contact point for family information and contact, since out-of-state calls will go through more easily than local calls.

If you have a cellphone, use this instead of normal telephone lines to make calls as these usually go through other channels that will be open.

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Evacuation

As soon as the earthquake stops, evacuate the house and get into an open area away from buildings, overhead wires, and possible falling objects. Do not let the family return to the house until it has been inspected for damage, gas leaks, loose ceiling tiles and other objects that could cause injury. One person should be elected the designated leader of the group or family. That person is responsible for turning off the utilities if possible and for head counts, questions and for guidance. This cuts down on confusion and family members scattering.

Be sure to have a comprehensive evacuation plan the whole family can understand. Make sure you have instant access to your 72-hour emergency kits. These should be in a closet on your way out of the house or in the trunk of your car or in the garage for instant access. Make sure that the family has a central meeting place in case of separation.

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