Preparing for an earthquake in California is crucial due to the state’s high seismic activity. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare:

1. Create an Emergency Plan

Discuss with Family/Household Members: Ensure everyone knows what to do during an earthquake, including where to go and how to stay safe.

Establish Communication Plans: Determine how to communicate with each other if separated. Choose an out-of-state contact person for everyone to reach out to.

Know Safe Spots: Identify safe spots in each room, such as under sturdy furniture or against an interior wall away from windows.

2. Build an Emergency Kit

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.

Food: Non-perishable items for at least three days.

First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, medications, and any necessary medical supplies.

Tools and Supplies: Flashlights, batteries, a radio (preferably hand-crank or battery-powered), a whistle, dust masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape, and a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

Personal Items: Extra clothing, sturdy shoes, blankets, copies of important documents, cash, and any special needs items such as baby supplies or pet food.

3. Secure Your Home

Fasten Heavy Furniture: Anchor bookcases, cabinets, and other tall furniture to walls.

Secure Water Heaters: Strap water heaters to the wall to prevent tipping.

Install Latches: Place latches on kitchen cabinets to prevent contents from spilling out.

Inspect and Retrofit: If your home is older, consider hiring a professional to evaluate it for earthquake readiness and retrofit it if necessary.

4. Know How to Shut Off Utilities

Gas: Learn how to turn off the gas supply if you smell gas after an earthquake.

Water: Know where your main water valve is located and how to turn it off to prevent water damage from broken pipes.

Electricity: Be prepared to turn off your electrical panel if you suspect damage to your home’s wiring.

5. Practice Earthquake Drills

Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Regularly practice this technique. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold on to something sturdy.

Evacuation Routes: Identify safe exits from each room and your home. Practice how to get out quickly but safely.

6. Stay Informed

Know Your Area’s Risk: Familiarize yourself with local seismic history and fault lines.

Stay Updated: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio in your emergency kit to receive news and instructions during and after an earthquake.

7. After an Earthquake

Check for Injuries: Tend to yourself and your family members first, and then check on neighbors.

Inspect for Damage: Look for structural damage in your home. If you suspect gas leaks, turn off the gas and leave the building.

Be Prepared for Aftershocks: These can occur minutes, days, or even weeks after the initial quake.

8. Community Involvement

Know Your Neighbors: Build relationships with neighbors to help each other during emergencies.

Get Involved in CERT: Consider joining a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to learn skills and contribute to community resilience.

9. Prepare Your Workplace and Car

Workplace: Know the emergency plan at your workplace and participate in drills.

Car: Keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like water, food, a first-aid kit, and blankets.

Being prepared can significantly reduce the impact of an earthquake on you and your family.

Visit us online at WestenMutual.com