12/10/2025
FYI:
π£Hereβs a Family Preparedness Plan for Earthquakes β covering what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. This is designed to help keep everyone safe and ready.
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π BEFORE an Earthquake (Preparation Stage)
1. Create a Family Emergency Plan:
β’ Know the safe spots in each room (under sturdy tables, against inside walls).
β’ Identify dangerous areas (near windows, heavy furniture, hanging objects).
β’ Assign roles: who grabs the emergency kit, who looks after younger kids or pets, etc.
β’ Choose a meeting place outside your home and another one outside your neighborhood.
2. Prepare an Emergency Go Bag (per person):
β’ Drinking water (at least 3 daysβ supply)
β’ Non-perishable food
β’ First aid kit and essential medicines
β’ Flashlight and extra batteries
β’ Whistle (for signaling)
β’ Face masks and hygiene supplies
β’ Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance, contacts)
β’ Cash (ATMs may not work)
β’ Extra clothes and blanket
3. Secure your home:
β’ Fasten shelves to walls.
β’ Secure heavy appliances and breakables.
β’ Know how to turn off electricity, gas, and water.
4. Practice Earthquake Drills:
β’ Teach everyone how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
β’ Make sure kids understand what to do and where to go.
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π DURING an Earthquake (Response Stage)
1. If Indoors:
β’ Drop to your hands and knees.
β’ Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or beside an interior wall.
β’ Hold On until the shaking stops.
β’ Stay away from windows, glass, and anything that can fall.
β’ Do not run outside during shakingβitβs more dangerous.
2. If Outdoors:
β’ Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines.
β’ Drop to the ground and protect your head and neck.
3. If in a Car:
β’ Pull over to a safe spot (not under bridges or near power lines).
β’ Stay inside the car until the shaking stops.
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π οΈ AFTER an Earthquake (Recovery Stage)
1. Check for Injuries:
β’ Give first aid if necessary.
β’ Do not move seriously injured persons unless thereβs immediate danger.
2. Inspect your surroundings:
β’ Check for gas leaks (if you smell gas, turn it off and leave the house).
β’ Look for cracks in the walls or foundation.
β’ Avoid using matches, lighters, or electrical switches if you suspect gas leaks.
3. Be Ready for Aftershocks:
β’ These can happen minutes, days, or even weeks after the main quake.
β’ Drop, Cover, and Hold On again if needed.
4. Stay Informed:
β’ Use battery-powered radio or phone for news and official instructions.
β’ Avoid using phones for non-emergency calls.
5. Communicate:
β’ Contact your emergency out-of-town contact person.
β’ Let family members know you are safe.
6. Check on neighbors:
β’ Especially the elderly, people with disabilities, or those living alone.
7. Donβt go back inside damaged buildings.
β’ Wait for the authoritiesβ clearance.
Stay informed, prepared and safe
