Earthquake Safety

While earthquakes cannot be predicted, preparation dramatically reduces injury risk. Here are the three critical phases of earthquake safety: 🛡️ Before an Earthquake: • Secure tall furniture, water heaters, and bookshelves to prevent toppling • Prepare an emergency kit (water, food, flashlight, first aid, batteries, whistle) for 3+ days • Establish a family reunion point and communication plan • Know your area's seismic risk level and evacuation routes • Participate in earthquake drills — practice 'Drop, Cover, Hold On' • Retrofit older building structures 🏃 During an Earthquake: • Indoors: Drop to the ground, take Cover under a sturdy table, Hold On to table legs. Stay away from windows and exterior walls • Outdoors: Move away from buildings, utility poles, and trees to open space • In a car: Pull over safely, stay inside, avoid overpasses and power lines • Do NOT use elevators, do NOT run outside (falling debris is the greatest danger) 🏥 After an Earthquake: • Check yourself and others for injuries • Prepare for aftershocks (strong ones commonly follow major quakes) • Shut off gas valves, check for electrical damage • Listen to official broadcasts for information • Stay away from damaged buildings and coastlines (tsunami risk) • Use phones only when necessary to keep lines open