How To Prepare And Survive During An Earthquake

If you have ever felt an earthquake you know that it is a very weird and frightening experience.  Earthquakes are happening more often and in places they normally do not occur.  It is important to have a plan of action just in case you ever experience an earthquake.

You should try not to panic during an earthquake.  Even though it is a scary experience you should try to remain as calm as possible so you can remember some basic rules when it comes to responding to an earthquake. You should always take cover under a table or something heavy and brace yourself.  You should avoid any room that has many loose objects that could become flying objects during an earthquake.  You should not stand in a doorframe during an earthquake, this is a common myth and a swinging door can easily injure you or someone in your family.   If you find yourself in a car, do not abandon the car; remain in the car until the event is over. You should stay away from anything that might be above you such as light poles or long tree limbs. If you are in a tall building, never use the elevator, try to find the most interior part of the building and stay there.  

Everyone in your family should be aware of the earthquake plan and this should be practiced on a regular basis. Small children will be less frightened if they know what to do should an earthquake occur.   You should never try to hold your pets down during an earthquake; they naturally will take cover and might become aggressive if you do not let them flee on their own. 

The best plan for earthquake survival is to prepare ahead of time.  You can do this with an earthquake survival kit.  Earthquake survival kits can include many items to secure pictures, furniture, computers, and televisions.  These objects can become deadly during an earthquake and block exits entrapping you and your family. 

It is a good idea to keep other survival items handy in case of an earthquake.  Your water supply may become jeopardized.  You should have water boxes or pouches available and a good supply depending on the size of your family.  Alternatives to water boxes or pouches are water purification tablets and a water filtration bottle.  Food rations should also be kept on hand in case of emergency and can be purchased for cats and dogs as well.  These items can prepare you for more than an earthquake, this is great preparation for any disaster.  

You should also have a flashlight available with extra batteries if your power source is interrupted. A radio is also a good idea if you have lost power, you can find out where to go for emergency help and how to get there safely.  

A first aid kit should be purchased and be accessible.  You may need this for your family or you may encounter someone that could use first aid assistance.  It is important to keep shoes available in case you have to walk to prevent contact with anything dangerous in the roadway. 

After shocks is another concern after an earthquake.  Aftershocks should be expected and you should treat them as you would an earthquake.  These can be just as dangerous as the earthquake itself.  Make sure everyone in your family is prepared for aftershocks and knows what to do in case you experience one.  

With preparation you can prevent injury or even death during and after an earthquake.  While many people think it will never happen to them, an earthquake can strike at any time without warning.  If you and your family are prepared, it can make all the difference.