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What to Do Before an Earthquake
Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning. Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake. Repairing deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations, anchoring overhead lighting fixtures to the ceiling, and following local seismic building standards, will help reduce the impact of earthquakes.
Six Ways to Plan Ahead
Check for Hazards in the Home
 Fasten shelves securely to walls.
 Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.
 Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.
 Hang heavy items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds, couches, and anywhere people sit.
 Brace overhead light fixtures.
 Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections. These are potential fire risks.
 Secure a water heater by strapping it to the wall studs and bolting it to the floor.
 Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of structural defects.
 Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches and on bottom shelves.
Identify Safe Places Indoors and Outdoors
 Under sturdy furniture such as a heavy desk or table.
 Against an inside wall.
 Away from where glass could shatter around windows, mirrors, pictures, or where heavy bookcases or other heavy furniture could fall over.
 In the open, away from buildings, trees, and telephone and electrical lines, overpasses, or elevated expressways.


Educate Yourself and Family Members
Contact your local emergency management office for more information on earthquakes. Teach children how and when to call 911, police, or fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information. Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
Have Disaster Supplies on Hand
 Flashlight and extra batteries.
 Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
 First aid kit and manual.
 Emergency food and water.
 Non-electric can opener.
 Essential medicines.
 Cash and credit cards.
 Sturdy shoes.
Develop an Emergency Communication Plan
In case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school); develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and telephone number of the contact person.