Earthquake Preparedness: How to Survive the "Big One"
Those who live on the west coast of North America can expect a moderate to major earthquake within their lifetimes. The May 19, 2009 earthquake in Los Angeles provides a reality check for our level of earthquake preparedness. Surviving a major earthquake depends on knowing what to do before, during and after the shaking starts. We must avoid injury during the quake and possible tsunami, then cope with chaos and disruption until order is restored.
Before the Quake
Keep an appropriately stocked earthquake kit in your home, workplace/school, and vehicle. Learn as much first aid as you can, including your family members. Prearrange meeting places for family members - assume telephone contact is impossible. Prepare to experience traumatic situations. Enjoy the reassurance of being as prepared as you choose to be.
Earthquake proof your home, keeping in mind there are always limits to what is possible and practical. Some things help minimize financial risk - securing framed artwork and collectibles to the wall for example. Securing the hot water tank to the wall reduces the risk of being terribly scalded for a small cost. Properly secure heavy appliances and furniture. Structural retrofitting is often out of reach (although sometimes mandatory), but we can at least arm ourselves with knowledge about a buildings limitations.
Most schools are at a high level of earthquake preparedness and often have a "special" earthquake kit for each child. If there is, include a reassuring note along with a familiar stuffed animal, toy or book, and favorite snacks. If there isn't, encourage the school to implement this procedure.
During the Quake
Those who live on the west coast of North America can expect a moderate to major earthquake within their lifetimes. The May 19, 2009 earthquake in Los Angeles provides a reality check for our level of earthquake preparedness. Surviving a major earthquake depends on knowing what to do before, during and after the shaking starts. We must avoid injury during the quake and possible tsunami, then cope with chaos and disruption until order is restored.
Before the Quake
Keep an appropriately stocked earthquake kit in your home, workplace/school, and vehicle. Learn as much first aid as you can, including your family members. Prearrange meeting places for family members - assume telephone contact is impossible. Prepare to experience traumatic situations. Enjoy the reassurance of being as prepared as you choose to be.
Earthquake proof your home, keeping in mind there are always limits to what is possible and practical. Some things help minimize financial risk - securing framed artwork and collectibles to the wall for example. Securing the hot water tank to the wall reduces the risk of being terribly scalded for a small cost. Properly secure heavy appliances and furniture. Structural retrofitting is often out of reach (although sometimes mandatory), but we can at least arm ourselves with knowledge about a buildings limitations.
Most schools are at a high level of earthquake preparedness and often have a "special" earthquake kit for each child. If there is, include a reassuring note along with a familiar stuffed animal, toy or book, and favorite snacks. If there isn't, encourage the school to implement this procedure.
During the Quake
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