5 Tips To Help You Survive A Big Earthquake

If you live near an earthquake fault it is so important that you know you have an increased chance of experiencing an earthquake. You need to learn what to do and where to go during an earthquake. If you are indoors you should stay away from windows and glass. Find a sturdy desk or table to go under and cover your head there. If you are outdoors stay away from buildings or electrical poles and wires. A big open field is ideal. Remember that there will be many aftershocks after an earthquake.

After a major earthquake your power is likely to be out for an extended period of time. Homes are also likely to be without landline telephone service in the area of the earthquake. In case your family is separated during an earthquake, it is a good idea to have a designated person that lives out of the area for each one of you to contact so you can still keep in touch.

Preparing for big earthquakes can make a huge difference in the amount of damage sustained during the event. Attach large appliances (T.V.'s), tall shelves and china hutches to the wall. Make sure that anything on shelves that are above your bed are not anything that will hurt you if they fall. Be sure that you have enough survival supplies to help you through the period that you will be without electricity. A Family Blackout Kit is ideal during the period of time you will be without electricity. Many stores sell Family Survival Kits that are ideal for a variety of disasters.

Do you hear gas leaking? Can you smell gas? Or maybe your gas meter is registering a high output? All of these are signs that you have a gas leak and it is necessary to turn your gas off at the meter. Use a gas meter tool to turn your gas off. Ideally you should keep this tool attached to your meter. Turn your valve ¼ turn in either direction to turn your gas OFF. Under no circumstances should you turn your meter back on yourself. For safety reasons, this should be done by only a professional. For more information on turning off your gas visit: 5 Tips On Shutting Off Your Gas During A Natural Disaster.

Make sure that your survival kit includes a radio so you can get up to date news information regarding the earthquake. Ideally it is best to keep either a solar powered radio or hand crank radio so you do not have to deal with replacing batteries or leaking batteries if you haven't replaced them in awhile. It is important to have up to date information about the earthquake in case there are evacuations in your area.

Natural disaster preparedness is something that you often hear people talk about, but few actually do something about it. Preparation before, during and after big earthquakes can make a difference of life and death. This is really a simple step to take. Get educated about earthquakes, discuss/make a plan with your family, have your family survival supplies readily available and pass the word onto others. The more people that are prepared for a big earthquake the less lives that will be lost. Get prepared BEFORE the next big earthquake strikes!


For more information on earthquake preparedness please visit FEMA, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

To stock up on survival supplies please visit Family Survival Supply.