Earthquakes are among the most unpredictable natural disasters that can occur. They can strike without warning, leaving little time for people to prepare. Being ready for a sudden earthquake is crucial, as it can save you from devastating damage and even loss of life.
In this article, we'll share everything you need to know about how to prepare for an earthquake. We’ll also provide essential tips and resources for earthquake preparedness.
How to Survive an Earthquake: Guidelines for Earthquake Preparedness
The California Earthquake Authority recommends the Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety. These include securing your space, creating an emergency kit, and identifying potential hazards. Here are the seven steps (and a few extra tips) for earthquake preparation:
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Identify potential hazards in your home and fix them. Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls or floors, and install latches on cabinets. Lastly, ensure that gas appliances have flexible connections.
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Create a disaster plan for your family. Identify escape routes and a meeting place, and practice earthquake drills.
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Prepare disaster supply kits for your home, car, and workplace. These should include emergency food supply, long-term water storage, first aid supplies, flashlights, and other essential items.
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Minimize financial risks by reviewing your insurance policies.
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During an earthquake, drop, cover, and hold on. Find a safe spot, drop to the ground, and take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture. Stay where you are until the shaking stops and it's safe to move. If you're outside or driving, move away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
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Don't use elevators during an earthquake; use stairs instead.
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After the earthquake, check for injuries and damage, and use your disaster supplies as needed. Turn off gas and electricity if you suspect damage, and be prepared for aftershocks.
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Learn basic first aid and CPR techniques.
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Retrofit and strengthen your home foundations. This can help prevent structural damage during an earthquake. Retrofitting can include adding anchor bolts, steel plates, steel braces, etc.
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Finally, learn more about earthquakes and how to stay safe. Stay informed about earthquake risks and preparedness by visiting the CEA website or other reliable sources of information.
See Related: Will There Be A Food Shortage?
Earthquake Preparedness Checklist: How to Prepare for an Earthquake
To ensure you're fully prepared for an earthquake, here's an earthquake preparedness checklist:
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Water: You should have at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
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Food: Prepare a survival food supply kit that includes enough food for at least 72 hours. Non-perishable food is essential for an emergency food kit.
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First Aid Kit: Your first aid kit should include items like bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.
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Flashlight: Make sure you have a flashlight with extra batteries in your emergency kit.
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Backup Power Source: A backup power source like a portable generator or solar-powered charger can be helpful in the event of a power outage.
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Medications: Make sure you have a supply of any necessary medications for at least three days.
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Cash: Have some cash on hand in case ATMs are not working.
See Related: How To Store Water Long Term?
Emergency Food Solutions
Valley Food Storage offers a variety of long-term, shelf-stable meal ideas that are perfect for emergency kits. These meals have a shelf life of up to 25 years, providing you with reliable and convenient options for your preparedness needs. Some suggested products include:
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72-Hour Emergency Food Kit: Provides 1,800 calories per day for 3 days and has a 25-year shelf life. It includes apple oatmeal, strawberry oatmeal, tomato basil soup, fettuccine alfredo, and freeze-dried apples—all with only clean, non-GMO ingredients.
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Ultimate Entrée Bucket: Includes 12 pouches of great-tasting entrees, providing 60 servings in total. The included dishes are pasta primavera, mac & cheese, pasta a la king, mango habanero chili, sweet & sour Asian rice, and white bean & lime chili.
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Freeze-Dried Fruit & Vegetable Bucket: Includes 12 pouches, with 6 pouches of fruit and 6 pouches of vegetables. It includes freeze-dried bananas, cinnamon apple slices, pineapple dice, sweet corn, green beans, and yellow squash dice.
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Family Survival Kit: Includes 58 pouches, 416 servings, 60,460 average calories, and 2,392g of protein. Includes hearty breakfasts, great-tasting entrees, essential proteins, and delicious fruits and vegetables.
The Bottom Line for Earthquake Preparedness
Earthquakes can happen at any time, and being prepared is crucial. Therefore, follow the Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety and create an earthquake preparedness checklist to help you get started. And don't forget to include emergency food options in your emergency kit to ensure you have the sustenance you need to survive the disaster.
