How to Prepare for An Earthquake - A Comprehensive Guide

The answer to the question of how to be prepared for an earthquake is often sought after it occurs. As someone who wants to protect himself and others during earthquakes, you must know the correct response to an earthquake during and after it happens.

In the US, the West Coast of the United States, particularly California, is the most seismically active region in the country and experiences earthquakes frequently. Based on states, the top 5 where earthquakes are prone include California, Alaska, Nevada, Hawaii, and Washington State. But whether you live in these areas or not, you still have to know how to prepare for earthquakes.

How to Prepare Before an Earthquake?

The best way to respond to an earthquake is to be prepared for it. Unless you are a seismologist or someone who studies earthquakes, you can never really tell when it will occur. You have to be prepared for it no matter when it comes by your door. Here are some ways to prepare before an earthquake.

Have an emergency plan.

How to prepare for an earthquake at home? You should brief your family on the plan that you designed when an earthquake happens. This plan must include the sections of the house where they should stay during an earthquake, the area of the house where you will meet after an earthquake, and the place where you should go in case they get separated during an earthquake.

Secure your home.

Take steps to secure your home and prevent injuries and property damage during an earthquake. Be sure to anchor heavy furniture to the wall, as well as appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines. Installing safety latches on cabinets and drawers will provide extra protection and help keep your belongings secure.

Conduct safety checks.

Regular safety checks can help identify potential hazards and reduce the risk of injury during an earthquake. Check your home for loose or unstable objects, and make sure your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in good working condition. Be fully informed on how to prepare your home for an earthquake can help improve the durability of your house during the disaster.

Have an emergency kit.

You must prepare an emergency kit that is accessible to anyone during an earthquake event. This emergency kit must have all the essentials that you will need during a catastrophe. How to prepare for an earthquake kit? This will include medicines, wound treatment items, raincoats, jackets, extra cellphones, and reliable power sources.

An earthquake may cause power lines to fail. This may last several days or even months. To keep your family safe during the night and to have a place to charge your devices during these emergency times, you need a power station that will supply you with electricity.

The Anker 757 Powerhouse is a reliable device that you should include in your emergency kit. The gadget utilises Anker's proprietary long-lasting InfiniPower™ Technology, solidified by LFP batteries that retain up to 3,000 cycles.  This makes it an investment for the long haul, with the potential for a decade of service. Not only that, but it has been designed to be robust and durable, standing the test of time. The unit has 13 total ports which you can maximize during emergencies.

The good thing with this powerhouse is that you do not have to wait for an earthquake to use it. It can also be an effective device to use on your camping in the outdoors. You will no longer have to worry about electricity wherever you go because of this Anker unit.

What We Should Do When an Earthquake Occurs

Drop, cover, and hold on.

When an earthquake is currently happening, you can only stay in your place and wait for it to stop. You have to remember to Drop, Cover, and Hold on. First, you need to drop down onto your hands and knees. You need to pull your body together so that you protect each body part just in case something falls from the top of any cabinet or wall.

Next, you should cover your face and neck. If you can find a sturdy table or desk, you must go under it to shield yourself from possible falling items. If you can find a durable wall or furniture, you can cover yourself next to it.

Finally, you should hold on to your shelter. Wait until the shaking stops. Your body should be prepared to move once the shaking shifts to your area and you need to take yourself to another section of the room or house.

Stay inside.

Experts say that you are less likely to get injured when you stay inside the house during an earthquake than to go outside to protect yourself. Instead of aiming to go outside, you should secure the items in your house so that your family can find different places in your home where they can drop, cover, and hold on.

If you are in a high-rise building, stay inside.

Even if you are currently in a high-rise building, you should still stay inside. Calmly walk outside and go down the stairs after the earthquake. You must follow the instructions of the safety officer of the building. DO NOT use the elevators.

If you are outside, stay outside.

Go to an open area when you are outside. Stay away from buildings that may collapse during an earthquake. You must also refrain from going near sinkholes, and fuel lines. Telephone lines and electrical posts should also be avoided.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preparing for an earthquake is crucial, particularly if you live in an area prone to seismic activity. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property, and increase your chances of survival during an earthquake.

FAQ

What is an earthquake?

Generally, an earthquake is the shaking of the ground and seismic energy occurs because of the slip of the fault. More than one million earthquakes occur in the world every year. The United States Geological Survey says that an average of 16 major earthquakes happen in the US yearly. This includes a magnitude of 7 or higher.  This means that you can never really escape earthquakes wherever you live. You just have to be prepared for it when it happens near your area.

Where is the Safest Place to be in an Earthquake?

When an earthquake strikes, the best course of action is to remain where you are. If you find yourself indoors, steer clear of areas where objects might come crashing down, such as windows, walls, furniture, and other hazards. If, however, you are outside, be sure to keep yourself away from trees, telephone poles, and electric wires, as well as the structures themselves.

How Can I Get the Alert for an Earthquake?

There are several ways to receive earthquake alerts. One of the easiest ways is to download a mobile app, such as the American Red Cross Earthquake app. This app provides notifications about earthquakes as well as safety information.

Another option is to sign up for alerts from your local government or emergency management agency. They may send text messages or emails with important information about earthquakes in your area.

Finally, you can also follow social media accounts of organizations such as the US Geological Survey, who often post about earthquake alerts.