Borrego Sun - Since 1949

There are steps to take to be better prepared for an earthquake. The following quick reminders from http://earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps – will help the community to be ready – it is sponsored by the Earthquake Country Alliance. In depth tips are available in English and Spanish.

Before the Earthquake:

Step 1: Secure your space by identifying hazards and securing moveable items.

Step 2: Plan to be safe by creating a disaster plan and deciding how you will communicate in an emergency, remembering that all phones may not work.

Step 3: Organize disaster supplies in (several) convenient locations [including your vehicles; don’t forget water, medicines, shoes and socks].

Step 4: Minimize financial hardships by organizing important documents and keeping a copy off-site in a safe location, strengthening your property, and considering insurance. Having a small amount of cash on hand is a good idea.

Survive and Recover

Duringthe next big earthquake, and immediately after, is when your level of preparedness will make a difference in how you and others survive and can respond to emergencies.

Step 5: Drop, Cover (your whole body if possible, but most important are your head and neck) and Hold On when the earth shakes. A sturdy piece of furniture is probably better than a doorframe. Keep hard-soled shoes near your bed, where you can reach them easily.

Step 6: Improve safety after earthquakes by evacuating if necessary, helping the injured, and preventing further injuries or damage.

After the immediate threat of the earthquake has passed, your level of preparedness will determine your quality of life in the weeks and months that follow.

Step 7: Restore daily life by reconnecting with others, repairing damage, and rebuilding community.

Often available in multiple languages, including Spanish, these are other great websites for you and your family to visit:

Earthquakes.bt.cdc/gov

http://www.ready.gov/earthquakes

http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/earthquake

http:/earthquake.usgs/gov/learn/preparedness.php – this site offers free handbooks on line (pdf) hardcopy; the handbooks are available in English and Spanish.