PRR – Families – Earthquakes
PREPARE
Preparedness Steps
- In the Home:
- Retrofit homes and secure heavy and loose objects to prevent against shaking
- Own a fire extinguisher
- Store breakables and flammable products in closed cabinets with latches
- Place heavy objects on lower shelves
- Identify Safe Places:
- Under sturdy furniture
- Against an inside wall
- Don’t follow the triangle method (Triangle Theory)
- Educate your family:
- Teach children how to contact emergency support services such as 911, the police, or the fire department
- Create a disaster supply kit with water, food, and basic necessities
- Create a plan for communication in the event that telephones do not work
Here are a list of resources and websites that may be useful:
RESPOND
If one is at home during a fire, make sure all windows are closed, and to wear a safety mask to prevent from breathing in smoke or debris. If you can evacuate, you should. Reach out to your source of transportation and exit the premises safely. If the wildfire is far enough that you do not need to evacuate, then stay indoors as much as possible. Turn off all utilities that utilize gas, and don’t have anything in the home burning or lit. Stay hydrated during this time. Make sure in the meantime that you are getting the necessary documents and supplies needed for an immediate evacuation order. Stay in touch with others, and keep everyone near you informed.
RECOVER
After an earthquake occurs, senior citizens need to first make sure they are not suffering for any bad injuries because that is the priority. Senior citizens are more prone to result in injuries after a severe earthquake. The next step is to decide whether it is safe enough to evacuate or not. If everything seems safe then exit the premises, but if it seems to be difficult, stay put. If there is no structural damage in the area, then staying put is completely safe. Make sure to look for people that can help you evacuate and can be of assistance during the process. Next, reach out to a family member so they can meet you at your evacuation spot. Within the next couple of weeks, community members, family, and friends should come together to recover. It is important to make sure your home has returned to a safe place for you to live again. If you are not able to stay in your home there are shelters that provide basic care.
Resources: