How to Survive an Earthquake

How to Survive an Earthquake: A Simple Guide

Earthquakes? Scary, unpredictable things. Knowing what to do can save lives. This guide will help you and your family stay safe.

Before the Earthquake: Get Ready!

Being prepared is key. It's like packing a backpack for a hike – better safe than sorry!

1. Make a Plan: Think about where to meet your family after a quake. Maybe choose a spot outside your home. Practice your plan! It’s like a fire drill, but for earthquakes.
2. Secure Your Home: Walk around your house. Anything that could fall and hurt someone? Bookshelves? Pictures? Secure them to the walls. Think about reinforcing weak spots, too.
3. Emergency Kit: Grab a backpack or box. Fill it with water (a gallon per person per day, for at least three days!), non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight. Think about your medicines, too. Check it regularly.
4. Learn First Aid: Knowing first aid could really help. Take a class! It's a great skill to have.
5. Safe Spots: In each room, find a strong table or a sturdy corner. That's where you'll go if the ground starts shaking.
6. Earthquake Insurance: Talk to your insurance agent about earthquake insurance. It might be a good idea to protect your home.

During the Earthquake: What to Do

An earthquake hits – fast action is crucial! Your main goal: stay safe from falling things.

1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: This is the big one. Drop to your hands and knees. Cover your head and neck under a table. If there's no table, cover your head with your arms and hide in a corner. Hold on tight until the shaking stops.
2. Stay Inside: Don't run outside while it's shaking! Falling stuff is dangerous.
3. Avoid Windows and Doors: These can break during an earthquake.
4. If You're Outside: Get away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Find a clear space.
5. If You're Driving: Pull over to a safe spot, away from bridges and overpasses. Stay in your car.
6. Aftershocks: Smaller quakes might happen after the big one. Stay alert!

After the Earthquake: What's Next

After the shaking stops, there's still work to do.

1. Check for Injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. Give first aid if needed.
2. Gas Leaks?: Smell gas? Get out of the building immediately and call emergency services.
3. Turn Off Utilities: If your home is damaged, turn off the gas, water, and electricity.
4. Check Your House: Is your house safe? If it's damaged, don't go back in.
5. Contact Loved Ones: Let your family and friends know you're okay.
6. Listen to Officials: Follow the instructions of emergency officials.
7. Watch Out for Hazards: Broken glass, downed power lines – be careful!
8. Get Help: Need help? Call emergency services.
9. Take Pictures: Take photos of damage to your property for insurance.
10. Stay Informed: Listen to the news for updates.

Different Types of Earthquakes

There are different kinds of earthquakes. Knowing about them can help you understand what to expect.

• Tectonic Earthquakes: These are the most common. They happen because the Earth's plates move.
• Volcanic Earthquakes: These happen near volcanoes. Sometimes they mean a volcano is about to erupt.
• Induced Earthquakes: These are caused by human activity, like building dams.

Safety Tips Based on Where You Live

Where you live matters. Living in a tall building? You'll need a different plan than someone living in a small house.

Keep Practicing!

Being ready for an earthquake isn't a one-time thing. Check your plan and your kit regularly. The more prepared you are, the safer you'll be.

More Information

Need more info? Check your local government website or look for resources online.