Preparing for Earthquakes: Tips, Safety Protocols, and Emergency Planning

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

Know Your Hazards: Earthquakes

Earthquakes are unpredictable natural disasters that can strike without warning, causing significant structural damage and posing severe risks to safety. The first signs might be an intense noise followed by ground shaking or rolling for several minutes. Aftershocks continue long after the initial quake, adding to potential dangers.

Quick Links

• Earthquake Early Warning Alerts#

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On

• Prepare Your Home

• Make An Emergency Plan

• Build an Emergency Kit Grab-and-Go Bags

• Research Insurance Options

Understanding Earthquakes:

We cannot predict earthquakes. However, the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning system can provide seconds to minutes of warning post-earthquake occurrence. Immediate action is crucial upon receiving such alerts on your phone, TV, or radio.

Canadian Earthquake Early Warning System

While earthquakes are inherently unpredictable, advancements like the earthquake early warning system offer a window of opportunity for safety measures and quick responses.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On Protocol

• Drop: Immediately drop to the ground near sturdy objects.

• Cover: Protect your head and neck with your arms or use a hard object as a shield if avlable.

• Hold On: Stay there until the shaking stops. Move only after it's safe.

Prepare Your Home for Earthquakes

Before an earthquake strikes, securing your living space can minimize damage and prevent injuries:

1. Tall Furniture Fixation: Use brackets to anchor bookcases, cabinets, and shelving to wall studs.

2. Picture Safety: Remove or secure framed pictures above beds, couches, and chrs.

3. Cabinet Stability: Attach cabinet doors with pushpull latches.

4. Appliance Anchors: Secure appliances like refrigerators, freezers, washers, and dryers using strong strapping or ratchets.

5. Water Heater Safety: Anchor water heaters snugly to the wall.

Emergency Planning

In preparation for an earthquake:

1. Create Your Plan: Use our resources for a detled Home Emergency Plan or try the Emergency Ready Planner guide online. Ensure plans address specific needs like children, pets, and individuals with disabilities.

2. Build an Emergency Kit: Prepare supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medical items, tools, flashlights, and batteries.

Packing Grab-and-Go Bags

In case evacuation is necessary:

1. Pack Essential Items: Include critical documents, medications, a change of clothes, personal hygiene items, and pet supplies.

2. Accessibility: Keep bags within reach for quick exit situations.

Insurance and Preparedness

• Discuss Coverage: Consult your insurance representative to clarify earthquake coverage terms and limitations.

• Disaster Financial Assistance: Understand that this isn't typically covered under insurance policies but is crucial for unexpected expenses post-disaster.

, preparation is key. By taking these steps now, you increase your safety readiness should an earthquake occur. Stay informed, stay safe.

: The educate on preparedness measures and general guidance. Always consult local emergency management services and professional advice for specific needs.
This article is reproduced from: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/earthquakes-tsunamis/earthquakes

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