Earthquake preparedness

Introduction

Earthquakes can happen anywhere, at any time. It's important to be prepared in case of an earthquake, and that's why we've put together this comprehensive guide on how to be earthquake prepared.

Inside, you'll find tips on how to create an emergency kit, what to do during and after an earthquake, and how to protect your family and property. So, whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned earthquake veteran, make sure to read through this guide and put our tips into practice. You never know when the next big earthquake will hit.

You're probably wondering how to be earthquake prepared. And that's a good question—because earthquakes can happen anywhere, at any time.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about being earthquake prepared. From creating a disaster plan to stocking up on supplies, we'll walk you through the steps you need to take to make sure you and your loved ones are safe during an earthquake.

The Science Behind Earthquakes

earthquakes happen when two plates of the Earth's crust rub against each other. The force of the movement creates an earthquake.

The Earth's plates are always moving. But sometimes they move too quickly and that's when we get earthquakes. The force of the two plates rubbing against each other creates an earthquake.

Most earthquakes happen along the Ring of Fire. The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped area that runs around the Pacific Ocean. It's where most of the Earth's earthquakes happen.

Earthquake Preparedness Basics

The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from an earthquake is to be prepared. That means having a plan and being ready to take action when the shaking starts.

There are some basic preparedness steps that everyone should take, regardless of where they live:

• Know the evacuation routes from your home, work and school.
• If you live in an earthquake-prone area, have a disaster kit packed and ready to go.
• Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and First Aid kit in your home.
• Practice drop, cover and hold on. When an earthquake starts, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.

What to Do During an Earthquake

If you're indoors when the earthquake hits, the first thing you should do is drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on to it. If there isn't a piece of furniture nearby that you can use for cover, sit against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your hands and arms.

If you're outdoors, find an open area away from buildings, trees, power lines, and anything else that could fall on you. Once you're in an open area, drop to the ground and assume the fetal position to protect your vital organs.

If you're in a moving vehicle, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Once you've stopped, put your parking brake on and stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops.

What to Do After an Earthquake

After an earthquake, it’s important that you check for injuries and get to a safe location. If you are indoors, stay there until the shaking stops. Drop down to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on to it until the shaking stops. If there is no table or desk nearby, sit against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms.

If you are outdoors, stay in the open away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Once in the open, drop down to the ground and stay there until the shaking stops.

If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as possible and stay in the vehicle. Do not attempt to drive over a bridge or through an area with downed power lines or damaged buildings.

Conclusion

To sum up, being earthquake prepared means having a plan and being ready for whatever comes your way. It's important to have supplies on hand, know how to turn off utilities, and be aware of potential hazards.

Although it's impossible to predict when or where an earthquake will strike, by being prepared, you can minimize the risk of injury and damage.