How to Prepare for an Earthquake

Step1
First off, get to know the area that you are residing in. Is it known for earthquakes? Check the history of the city you are in. Preparing ahead of time can actually save your life as well as protect you in case of an earthquake. Remember, they can happen anytime without any sort of warning, so always be prepared to protect yourself.
Step2
There are a couple things one can do to plan ahead before an earthquake occurs. First, check for any hazards inside your home. Fasten shelves onto walls, place breakable items on a lower level, repair any defective wiring, repair any cracked foundations, and secure your water heater by bolting it down.
Step3
Then, identify a safe zone that you could go to both indoors and outdoors. This can include somewhere that has a sturdy furniture , away from where glass could shatter, or even against an inside wall. If you go outdoors, stay away from big buildings, trees, telephone wires, and overpasses.
Step4
Another useful thing to do is to educate those around you about earthquakes. You can contact your local emergency management office or the American Red Cross to help you better understand what to do in the case of earthquakes. Teach children how to call for 9-1-1 and to educate them around the house , especially with electricity, gas, and water.
Step5
Another important thing to do is to make sure that you have backup emergency supplies and food on hand. A well planned out supply bag should contain a flashlight and batteries, radio, first aid kit, emergency food and water, medicine, and even cash.
Step6
An emergency communication plan could definitely help out family and friends who are separated in case of an earthquake. You can develop a plan to reunite after a disaster occurs. Make sure you have contact numbers as well so that you could always call to make sure everyone is safe and sound.
Step7
Last but not least, you could play a part in your community to help those who are not aware of earthquakes. Publish a section in the newspaper sharing your thoughts on how to better prepare in case of an earthquake. You can also interview electricity and gas representatives to get to know how to turn off your utilities. Work together to apply your knowledge to building codes, programs, hazard hunts, and neighborhood and family emergency plans.