EARTHQUAKE SAFETY – STEP 2

Create a Disaster-Preparedness Plan

Plan now to be safe during an earthquake

Practice "DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON."

Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy desks and tables.

Learn how to protect yourself no matter where you are when an earthquake strikes.

Plan now to respond after an earthquake

Keep shoes & a working flashlight next to each bed.

Teach everyone in your household to use emergency whistles &/or to knock three times repeatedly if trapped. Rescuers searching collapsed buildings will be listening for sounds.

Identify the needs of household members & neighbors with special requirements or situations, such as use of a wheelchair, walking aids, special diets, or medications.

Take a Red Cross 1^st Aid & CPR training class.

Know the location of utility shutoffs & keep needed tools nearby. Know how to turn off the gas, water and electricity to your home. Only turn off gas if you smell or hear leaking gas. 

Learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Install smoke alarms & check them monthly. Change the batteries at least once a year.

Check with your fire department to see if there is a CERT team in your area. If not, ask how to start one.

Plan now to communicate & recover after an earthquake

Locate a safe place outside of your home for your family to meet after the shaking stops.

Establish an out-of-area contact person who can be called by everyone in the household to relay information.

Provide all family members with a list of important contact phone numbers.

Determine where you might live if your home cannot be occupied after an earthquake or other disaster. Learn about the earthquake plan developed by your child's school or day care, and keep your child's emergency release forms current.

Keep copies of insurance policies, financial records, and other essential documents in a secure location, such as with your household disaster kit. Include a household inventory (a list and photos or video of your belongings).

TIP: Your family may be sleeping when the next strong quake hits Utah. After the shaking stops, the lights may be out and broken glass and other dangerous debris may litter the floor, making it unsafe to walk barefoot. Keep a flashlight and a pair of sturdy shoes secured to or within reach of everyone’s bed. A good way to do this is to use a drawstring bag tied to a bedpost at the head of the bed for each occupant.

Information taken from Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country.