EARTHQUAKE SAFETY MEASURES / BEFORE / DURING / AFTER

BEFORE
HAZARD HUNT- Identify potential dangers in the home using common sense, fore-sight, and your imagination to reduce risk in the event of an earthquake. Take active security measures, surveying the home for possible hazards. Take steps to correct and secure these hazards, reducing risk.

HAZARD-RISK REDUCTION

* Tall heavy furniture which could fall; fix it to a wall.

* Hot water heaters that can fall away from pipes and rupture need to be anchored to a wall. Use flexible gas line connectors.

* Appliances that can be moved can break electrical or gas lines and must be anchored to a stable location with flexible connections.

* Be sure heavy mirrors or picture frames are placed away from beds and mounted securely to the wall.

* Cabinets containing breakable items should have latches and heavy objects should be placed low to the ground.

* Flammable liquids must be stored securely away from flame.

* Masonry chimneys need bricks checked. Firmly support the roof.

* Beds should not be placed near windows.

* Glass bottles should not be placed on high shelves.

FAMILY EARTHQUAKE DRILLS will help you and your family plan and react; remembering where to seek shelter and how to protect yourselves.

* Identify safe spots and places in each room.

-Under a doorway, sturdy table, desk, or kitchen counter. -Against an inside corner or wall; cover head with hands. -Know and reinforce these locations by practice.

* Beware of danger zones and stay clear of: -Windows that may shatter, including mirrors and picture frames. -Heating units, fireplace, stove, and area around chimneys. -Cabinets, refrigerators, and bookcases that may topple.

* Practice safe quake actions: -Conduct drills, check reactions and choices.

* Discuss what to expect following a major earthquake and be prepared: -To treat and take care of injuries. -To check for gas leaks and learn where and how to turn off the gas, power, and water at main switches and valves. -For aftershocks and exiting the building. -Remember to stay close and if separated to activate the emergency communication plan.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

* REACT INSTANTLY -Stay Calm! -Think clearly and use common sense. -Duck and cover!

* AT HOME -Stay indoors. -Turn off the stove and douse fires. -Crouch under a heavy table or desk and hang onto it. -If there is no protective furniture; crouch and brace yourself against an inside doorway, inside corner, or wall.

* OFFICE BUILDING OR IN A STORE -Don't run for the exit; there may be a stampede. Stay on the same floor. -Move away from windows. -Crouch under a desk, bench, or table. -Do not use the elevator. -Expect the fire alarm and sprinkler to activate.

* ON FOOT -Stay outside, in the open, away from trees, signs, utility poles and lines, and buildings. -If you are near a building, duck into a doorway to avoid falling debris. Do not enter the building.

* IN A VEHICLE -Quickly pull to the side of the road. -Keep away from buildings, trees, bridges, signs, overpasses, and utility lines and poles. -Stay in the vehicle until it stops shaking.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

* Check for injuries and treat the injured with first aid. Take steps to stop bleeding and call for medical assistance if there is an emergency. Don't attempt to move severely injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Cover them with blankets.

* Stay calm and use common sense.

* Use the telephone only to report severe emergencies.

* Put out fires. Don't use matches, lighters, candles, electrical switches or appliances in case there is a gas leak; use flashlights.

* Check gas, water and electrical lines and check appliances for damage. If you smell gas or see a broken line, shut off the main valve.

* Wear heavy shoes and gloves in areas near fallen debris and broken glass.

* Do not touch downed power lines or broken appliances.

* Clean up dangerous spills such as glass, bleach or medicines.

* Turn on a battery-powered or car radio for instructions and information.

* Check to see that sewage lines are intact before using toilet.

* Check water and food supplies. If water is cut off, use emergency supplies found in toilet tanks and water heater.

* Check the building for damage and cracks. Do not use the fireplace until it is inspected.

* Check cabinets and closets. Open carefully and beware of falling objects.

* Watch for falling objects when you enter or leave buildings. Do not enter severely damaged structures.

* Do not use your vehicle, unless there is an emergency. Do not go sight-seeing to view damage. You may hamper the relief effort. Keep streets clear for passing emergency vehicles.

* Render aid and assistance to your community as needed.

* Be prepared for aftershocks. They can cause added damage. If near large body of water, evacuate to higher safe ground.

* If evacuation is necessary, post a message of where you can be found in clear view. Have designated reunion points. Have a 72-hour survival kit ready to take with you that includes: medicines, first aid kit, flashlight, radio batteries, important papers, cash, food, water, sleeping bags, blankets, and extra clothes.