If a major earthquake struck in your area today, you might be without direct assistance for up to 72 hours. Are you prepared to be self-sufficient? Is your family? Your neighborhood?


Individual and Family Preparedness

1. Know the safe spots in each room-under sturdy tables, desks or against inside walls.

2. Know the danger spots-windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces, tall furniture.

3. Conduct practice drills. Physically place yourself and your children in safe locations.

4. Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from your local Red Cross Chapter or other community organization.

5. Decide where your family will reunite if separated.

6. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers.

7. Choose an out-of-state friend or relative whom family members can call after the quake to report whereabouts and conditions.

Home Preparedness

1. Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in case the lines are damaged.

2. Check chimneys, roofs and wall foundations for stability. Make sure your home is bolted to its foundation. Call a licensed contractor if there are any questions.

3. Secure water heater and appliances that could move enough to rupture utility lines.

4. Keep breakable and heavy objects on lower shelves.

5. Secure hanging plants and heavy picture frames or mirrors (especially those hanging over beds).

6. Put latches on cabinet doors to keep them closed during shaking.

7. Keep flammable or hazardous liquids such as paints, pest sprays or cleaning products in cabinets or secured on lower shelves.

8. Maintain emergency food, water and other supplies, including medicine, first aid kit and clothing.

Community Preparedness

1. Suggest that local organizations of which you are a member undertake a specific preparedness program or acquire special training to be of assistance in the event of a damaging earthquake.

2. Organize a neighborhood earthquake preparedness program.

3. Conduct training for neighborhood residents in preparedness, first aid, fire suppression, damage assessment and search and rescue.

4. Develop self-help networks between families and neighborhood through a skills and resource bank which includes a listing of tools, equipment, materials and neighborhood members who have special skills and resources to share.

5. Identify neighbors who have special needs or will require special assistance.

6. Have neighbors agree to hang a white flag out after the quake if everyone and everything is OK.

California Earthquake Preparedness Month provides an opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to "BEAT THE QUAKE."

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