Place the largest and heaviest items on the lowest shelves.
Store fragile items and flammable objects in low, closed cabinets with latches.
Hang wall fixtures away from places that people sit.
Brace overhead light fixtures.
Bolt and strap the water heater to the wall and ground.
Repair any deep cracks in ceilings and the foundation of the house.
What to do during an earthquake:
If indoors:
Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table or desk.
Do NOT try to leave the building.
Stay away from windows.
If in a moving vehicle:
Quickly stop the car and stay in the vehicle.
Move to a clear area from buildings, trees, overpasses, or utility wires.
Once the earthquake has ended, proceed with caution. Avoid bridges and ramps that may be damaged.
Earthquake Emergency Supplies
First aid kit
Emergency food and bottled water
Flash light and extra batteries
Portable, battery-operated radio
Medicines, such as aspirin
Durable shoes
Money
After the earthquake, be sure:
That aftershocks have ended.
To help injured or trapped persons.
Beware
of fires and put out small fires quickly. Fire is a very common hazard
after earthquakes, often creating more damage than the earthquakes
themselves.
Leave the gas on at the mail valve unless you smell gas or think it might be leaking
Clean up chemical spills as best as you can.
Be careful of falling objects and open doors carefully
Make sure the area you say in is stable and safe, and evacuate if there is a danger.
Listen to battery radios or television for emergency informations and instructions.
Inspect chimneys for damage because damage can be a fire hazard or cause the chimney to collapse.
Be careful when entering buildings or areas and check areas for damages or hazards.
Use telephones for only dire emergancies to allow emergancy calls to go through
It is necessary for schools to conduct earthquake drills to familiarize both the students and the school staff with earthquake emergency situation. When the real earthquake happens, they would know what to do and avoid panic.
