tips on how to prepare for an EARTHQUAKE
- Fasten shelves securely to walls, and place heavy objects on lower shelves.
- Store breakable items in low, closed cabinets.
- Hang items such as pictures and mirrors away from beds and anywhere people sit.
- Repair known defective electrical wiring and gas connections.
- Strap your water heater to studs in the wall and bolt it to the floor.
- Repair any large existing cracks in walls or foundations.
- Store poisons such as pesticides and herbicides, as well as flammable liquids, on bottoms shelves of latched cabinets.
- Identify safe places in each room (under sturdy furniture, against inside walls, away from glass).
- Locate safe places outdoors (away from buildings, trees, electrical lines, and bridges).
- Teach family members how to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
- Teach children how to dial 911 in an emergency.
- Have disaster supplies on hand (flashlight and extra batteries, battery operated radio, fist aid kit with manual, emergency food and drinking water, non electric can opener, cash, sturdy shoes).