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Earthquakes occur without warning so be ready with these preparedness tips

Tim Rhatigan

United Healthcare of California

Special to Village News

Earthquakes are unfortunately a common occurrence, especially in places with high seismicity, such as California. Because earthquakes occur without warning, it's important to take steps to prepare.

The Red Cross and Federal Emergency Management Agency offer tips for a safety checklist to know what to do before, during and after an earthquake. Here are additional reminders of what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before an Earthquake

Create an earthquake readiness plan with household members. Everyone in the family should know what to do and where to go as soon as they feel the vibrations of an earthquake, as well as a common place to reunite after an earthquake in case there is limited or no means of communication.

Be prepared with an earthquake kit comprised of water, food, medications, a first-aid kit, bandages for injuries, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, blankets, sturdy shoes, a change of clothes and other personal items. Because no one knows where they will be when an earthquake occurs, prepare a kit for the home, workplace and each car.

In the emergency kit, include copies of important documents – such as insurance policies, financial records, credit card numbers, medical insurance cards, a list of medications and prescriptions, plus phone numbers and addresses for key contacts. Also include a small amount of cash, as ATMs, banks, and credit card systems may not be operating.

Be sure to know how to turn off the water, gas and electricity in the home. A multi-function tool may be needed.

Choose an "earthquake safe location" to take cover in every room of the house, office, school or any place that family members go to on a regular basis. This location should be away from windows and any furniture that could fall.

What to Do During an Earthquake

People should drop down to their knees and cover their head and neck with their arms or an object so that they are protected from any debris or furniture falling during the earthquake.

Stay away from windows and furniture that can fall over, such as book cases and televisions.

If possible, go to an identified "safe location" or find a wall near the center of the building or house, take cover in a doorway or crawl under a heavy piece of furniture, such as a desk or table.

If a person is outside, get away from anything that could fall, such as trees, powerlines, buildings and houses.

If they are in a car, pull over to a spot that is away from trees, powerlines and buildings. Wait in the car until the shaking stops.

After an Earthquake

Once the shaking has stopped, if a person is in an unsafe area or if there is a collapsed ceiling, exposed electrical wires, broken glass, gas or smoke odor, find the safest way to evacuate to an open space or take shelter in another area of the building.

Check the water, gas and electric lines for any damage. If they are damaged, shut off the valves. If there is the smell gas, open all doors and windows and leave home immediately. Report a broken gas line to the authorities as soon as possible.

Do not use candles, matches or any open flames as a source of light. Earthquakes often result in broken gas lines, which should not be mixed with open flames.

Only use the phone for emergencies. Save the battery for as long as possible.

Be prepared to repeat everything in the likely event of aftershocks, which usually happen within the first few days following an earthquake.

 

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