12/10/2025
đ Before an Earthquake
1. Build Your Family Emergency Plan⢠Identify safe zones in each room (like under sturdy tables or beside interior walls).
⢠Spot risky areas (near windows, heavy furniture, hanging items).
⢠Assign tasks: who grabs the go bag, who assists kids or pets, etc.
⢠Choose two meeting points: one near your home and another outside your neighborhood.
2. Pack a Go Bag for Each Family Member⢠Water (minimum 3-day supply)
⢠Ready-to-eat food
⢠First aid kit and essential meds
⢠Flashlight and extra batteries
⢠Whistle for emergencies
⢠Face masks and hygiene items
⢠Copies of IDs, insurance, and emergency contacts
⢠Cash (in case ATMs are down)
⢠Extra clothes and a blanket
3. Secure Your Home⢠Anchor shelves and heavy items to walls
⢠Stabilize appliances and fragile objects
⢠Learn how to shut off electricity, gas, and water
4. Practice Earthquake Drills⢠Teach everyone the âDrop, Cover, and Hold Onâ method
⢠Make sure kids know where to go and what to do
đ During an Earthquake
1. If Youâre Indoors⢠Drop to your hands and knees
⢠Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or near an interior wall
⢠Hold on until the shaking stops
⢠Stay away from windows and anything that might fall
⢠Donât rush outsideâitâs safer to stay put
2. If Youâre Outdoors⢠Move to an open space away from buildings, trees, and power lines
⢠Drop down and shield your head and neck
3. If Youâre in a Vehicle⢠Pull over to a safe spot (not under bridges or near power lines)
⢠Stay inside until the shaking ends
đ ď¸ After an Earthquake
1. Check for Injuries⢠Provide first aid if needed
⢠Avoid moving seriously injured people unless absolutely necessary
2. Inspect Your Environment⢠Check for gas leaksâif you smell gas, turn it off and evacuate
⢠Look for structural damage
⢠Avoid flames or electrical switches if gas leaks are suspected
3. Prepare for Aftershocks⢠These may follow minutes, days, or weeks later
⢠Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On again
4. Stay Updated⢠Use a battery-powered radio or phone for news and instructions
⢠Keep phone use limited to emergencies
5. Reach Out⢠Contact your designated emergency person
⢠Let loved ones know youâre safe
6. Check on Others⢠Especially seniors, people with disabilities
