Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning. Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can reduce the dangers of serious injury or loss of life from an earthquake. Repairing deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations, anchoring overhead lighting fixtures to the ceiling, and following local seismic building standards, will help reduce the impact of earthquakes.

• fasten shelves securely to walls
• place large items on lower shelves
• brace overhead light fixtures
• secure all water heaters by strapping them to the wall

• under sturdy furniture
• against an inside wall
• away from glass
• in the open away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, or overpasses

• contact your local emergency managment office for more information on earthquakes
• teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department
• teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water

• crowbar or claw tool (36" or longer)
• plastic garbage bags (heavy duty, 30 gallon or larger)
• small and large plastic bags
• tent (family or tube-type)
• sleeping bags, blanket, or space blanket
• cash/money (small denominations and coins)
• dry food
• FILTERED WATER BOTTLES
• clothing
• walking shoes and socks
• local road map
• fire extinguisher
• compass
• flashlight with extra batteries
• matches in a waterproof container
• small rado with extra batteries
• entertainment pack (family photos, notebooks, books, and games)

• in case family members are separated from one another during an earthquake, develop a plan for reuniting after the disaster
• ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact"

• work with local emergency services and the American Red Cross officials to help others
• work together in your community to apply your knowledge to buiolding codes, retrofitting programs, hazard hunts, and neighborhood and family emergency plans

• Expect aftershocks. These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent than the main quake but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures and can occur in the first hours, days, weeks, or even months after the quake.
• Listen to a battery-operated radio or television. Listen for the latest emergency information.
• Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
• Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves.
• Stay away from damaged areas. Stay away unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organizations. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas. These are also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called "tidal waves"). When local authorities issue a tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way. Stay away from the beach.
• Help injured or trapped persons. Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance such as infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.
• Inspect the entire length of chimneys for damage. Unnoticed damage could lead to a fire.
• Inspect utilities.