BE PREPARED

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteousness.

Isaiah 41:10

Because earthquakes occur without warning, it’s important to take steps now to prepare, especially since we live in an earthquake-prone area. Knowing what you can do and how to respond with constructive and protective actions, can make yourself, your family, and your home safer. Before an earthquake – Set aside some emergency supplies, and teach your family what to do at home, during and after a disaster. Because you don’t know where you will be when an earthquake occurs, prepare a Disaster Supply Kit for your home, workplace, and car. You could be without help for up to 72 hours, so be prepared for at least that long.

During an earthquake – drop, cover and hold on to prevent injuries from falling objects and debris, like toppling chimneys, falling bricks, ceiling plaster, and light fixtures. Do not exit the building until after shaking stops.After an earthquake or major disaster - Register every member of your family for FREE at safeandwell.org to be able to send messages to each other.

BE PREPARED: EMERGENCY KITS

Taking the time to assemble a home emergency kit, will help you and your loved ones respond and recover from emergencies and disasters. There are lots of helpful resources on how to prepare a kit. Whether you buy a kit already assembled, customize a store-bought kit, or make you own kit, the American Red Cross recommends six basics to stock up on at home (a good rule of thumb is to have at least a two week supply of the following on hand):

Water
Food
First-aid supplies (including prescription medicines)
Clothing and bedding
Tools and emergency supplies
Special items

Many of these items you probably already have at home, you just need to move them all into one place. Emergency tools and supplies, such as flashlights, first aid kit, and radio, should be kept in a tote bag or plastic bin. Emergency water and food should be stored in a cool, dry place, and regularly rotated into meals and replaced. If your family likes to camp, or has an RV, you already have cooking and shelter equipment. Remember to keep enough fuel on hand for your cooking stove to last at least two weeks.

Don’t forget to also assemble a personal emergency kit. The same six essential items apply here, only in smaller quantities. Think about how far you commute to work or school each day. What would you do if you had to walk home? What would you want in your personal “go bag” to make you comfortable? Keep this kit in your car, or in your office at work, as well as a sturdy pair of walking shoes.

BE PREPARED: FAMILY DISASTER PLANS

Creating a family disaster plan is the foundation for disaster preparedness.

A family disaster plan provides the blueprint for safeguarding and sustaining your family during emergencies and disasters, keeping family members connected and informed, handling disaster stress, and taking effective action to respond and recover. Don’t be overwhelmed: just take it one step at a time.

By preparing and practicing for an emergency in advance, you make a real difference in your ability to cope with disaster, which, in turn, will enable you and your family to recover more quickly.

Step 1: Make a Family Emergency Communication Plan

Just follow the simple steps at: ready.gov/make-a-plan
Make wallet-sized Emergency Contact Cards
After a major disaster, register every member of your family for FREE at safeandwell.org to be able to send messages to each other

Step 2: Make a Family Evacuation Plan

Draw a floor plan of your home – showing escape routes.
Decide on a safe, familiar place where your family can go for protection or to reunite

Step 3: Practice Both Plans Before Disaster Strikes