Earthquake Survival Guide
Survival 101
Earthquakes are caused by many things including tectonic plate shifts, volcanoes, or man. They can cause serious damage to any affected area. The recent tragedies in Haiti, Chile and now Mexico are testaments to this. Since earthquakes are impossible to predict, proper preparation is vital to surviving one. In addition to planning, properly responding during and after an earthquake will aid in your survival.
Basic preparation involves two things: having a plan for what to do in case of an earthquake and the proper supplies. It's important that everyone in your family knows how and where to rest during an earthquake. Be familiar with the secure places to stay during an earthquake. These places, like the hallway, door, or under a table, should be away from any glass or hanging objects. Everyone should also know all emergency numbers and how to turn off all utilities. Your plan should include two places to meet: home and somewhere further away. Establish an out-of-area contact for everyone in the family to check in with after a quake. Additionally, your home should be earthquake proofed. Secure the water heater, anchor any heavy items, place larger objects on the bottom of shelves, latch-close any cabinets containing flammable or hazardous items, avoid hanging any heavy objects over beds and couches, and make sure you have a functioning smoke detector.
For supplies, you should have enough food to last your family for 72 hours, the estimated time it takes relief services to arrive. Having clean drinking water is even more important than food. Keep several gallons on hand. The Center for Earthquake Research and Information (CERI) recommends at least a 10-day supply of medicine (emergency and prescription). A first-aid kit (and accompanying manual) is equally fundamental. Including clothing and bedding in your emergency supply is another good idea since home damage may force you to live out of your car temporarily. Have a selection of tools on hand as well. Keeping supplies at home is important, but consider also keeping some in your car and at work, as you never know where you’ll be when an earthquake hits.
During an earthquake, if you're in a building, you may execute either the drop-and-cover or triangle method. For the drop and cover method, you drop under a heavy object like a desk or table, cover your eyes with your arm, and hold the position. For the triangle method, you rest in fetal position alongside a higher piece of secure furniture such as a couch. The idea is that any falling matter will fall atop the object beside you and the floor, creating a "triangle of life" in your resting spot. If you're in your car, get to the nearest open area and avoid any bridges. Regardless of where you are, stay where you feel the safest. You should have enough knowledge of your environment to determine where it's safe to take cover. Try not to move too far, however, since you run a high risk of being attacked by debris if you do.
Considering aftershock and damage, the post-earthquake environment can be just as dangerous. Use precaution when doing anything. Check for any injuries to anyone in parties and damage to your home and respond appropriately. Avoid using the telephone lines or roads unless it's an emergency. If you smell any fumes, leave the area immediately. Don't light anything until you've verified that there's no gas leak. If there is a leak, cut off the gas.
Although earthquakes are random events that guarantee no safety, you greatly improve your chances for survival by educating yourself about the matter.
