| Being prepared Things You Can Do To Be Prepared For An Earthquake before it strikes... Remember there will be ( aftershocks ) more quakes, usually smaller in size for the next several hours, days, weeks and in the case of a major quake, for months to come. Have a family plan and the following items on hand. These items are available at many different stores and shops in your town or via the internet. 1. Have a family plan detailing what to do if you are not together when the earthquake or other disaster strikes.. where you will go, how you will contact one another if separated. Try to remain calm as that will help your family, who are looking to you for support, to also stay calm. It is suggested that you have a relative or friend to call " Out of state " call to let them know you are ok, leave messages for family members. It is easier to make a long distance phone call than a local one, after a disaster, and your chances of getting out are greater. 2. Never light a match until you are sure that there are no gas leaks, this this includes turning on lights or a lamp. It is much safer to use a flashlight or other battery operated light source or a Lightstick.(R) 3.Be sure that you have shoes that will protect you from serious cuts on your feet, from broken glass or other dangerous objects. 4. Check to be sure that everyone is OK. If injured, treat the injury, to the best of your ability If possible stay put till help arrives. 5. Do not eat or drink anything that could be contaminated by broken glass or dangerous chemicals. 6. Have on hand food and water to feed your family for 3 days time.. Food that does not need refrigeration or special handling Freeze dried food is good and so is canned and boxed if the cans and or boxes are away from contamination. Water should be stored in a cool, place and changed every 6 months, except in the case of pre-packaged water, then follow the information on the container that gives the shelf life.. Remember that you have between 30-50 gallons or more of potable ( safe ) drinking water in your water heater, if you have no other water or the lines are broken. 7. Emergency medical supplies including bandages, and antiseptic, personal supplies, this is anything that you feel that your family will need for the next 3 days time. 8. Have at least 3 days of medications for persons who have to have medications such as heart, blood pressure, pills or insulin medication for those with diabetes on a daily basis. 9. Flash light, battery powered lanterns and some long life safety candles and matches. 10. A portable radio that will work off batteries, solar and or hand crank, with extra batteries. 11. Know where your gas, water and power shut offs are located and how to turn them off. 12. Have an extra change of clothing, shoes and a warm jacket for each family member. 13. Have some pet supplies and confine your pets as they will be frightened and could become injured or run away out of fear. 14. Use the telephone only for emergencies and to ascertain that your family members are all safe.. 15. Listen for emergency bulletins from your Emergency Alert System, if you do not have a radio, you can use the one in your car. Back |