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