Earthquake safety at home
What should I do before, during, and after an earthquake?
Projekt-Plan
Why: Unsecured furniture like bookshelves and wardrobes are the primary cause of non-structural injuries during tremors.
How:
- Identify all furniture over 1 meter (3 feet) tall.
- Use generic L-brackets or flexible nylon furniture straps.
- Ensure screws are driven directly into wall studs, not just drywall.
Done when: All tall furniture is physically secured and does not tip when pulled.
Why: Shaking causes cabinet doors to fly open, turning dishes and glassware into dangerous projectiles.
How:
- Purchase generic child-proof or earthquake-specific latches.
- Install them on all upper cabinets containing breakables.
- Test that they require a manual release to open.
Done when: All upper cabinet doors remain closed even when the unit is shaken.
Why: A tipped water heater can rupture gas and water lines, causing fires or flooding.
How:
- Use a generic water heater strapping kit.
- Wrap one strap around the top third and one around the bottom third.
- Secure both ends to wall studs with lag bolts.
Done when: The water heater is immobile and securely braced against the wall.
Why: Items stored high up are likely to fall and cause head injuries or block exit paths.
How:
- Walk through every room and identify heavy objects (books, vases, electronics) on high shelves.
- Relocate them to hip-level or lower.
- Use museum wax or adhesive putty to secure smaller collectibles.
Done when: No heavy items are stored above shoulder height on open shelving.
Why: Shattered glass is a major source of lacerations during and after an earthquake.
How:
- Measure windows and glass doors.
- Apply clear, generic safety/shatter-resistant window film.
- This keeps glass shards together even if the pane breaks.
Done when: All large glass surfaces are covered with protective film.
Why: Water infrastructure is often the first utility to fail and the last to be restored.
How:
- Store 4 liters (1 gallon) per person per day.
- For a 2-person household, store 112 liters (approx. 30 gallons).
- Use BPA-free containers and store in a cool, dark place.
Done when: Total required volume of water is stored and dated.
Why: You may need to evacuate your home instantly if it becomes structurally unsound.
How:
- Use a sturdy backpack.
- Pack: Flashlight, extra batteries, whistle, dust mask, multi-tool, and basic hygiene items.
- Include a change of clothes and sturdy walking shoes.
Done when: A packed bag is placed near the primary exit for every family member.
Why: Grocery stores may be closed or inaccessible for several days following a major event.
How:
- Focus on high-calorie, low-sodium foods that don't require cooking (canned meats, peanut butter, granola bars).
- Include a manual can opener in your kit.
- Don't forget food for pets and infants.
Done when: Pantry contains 14 days of food specifically designated for emergencies.
Why: Professional medical help will be overwhelmed; you must be able to treat minor injuries yourself.
How:
- Include bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, and medical tape.
- Add a 14-day supply of all essential prescription medications.
- Include a basic first aid manual.
Done when: Kit is assembled and stored in an easy-to-reach, central location.
Why: Earthquakes often happen at night; you need to protect your feet from glass immediately.
How:
- Place a pair of sturdy, thick-soled shoes in a bag tied to the bed frame.
- Include a flashlight and a pair of work gloves in the same bag.
- This ensures you can move safely even in total darkness and debris.
Done when: Every bed in the house has shoes and a light source attached or immediately adjacent.
Why: Local phone lines jam during disasters, but long-distance lines often remain functional.
How:
- Choose a relative or friend living at least 200km away.
- Ensure every family member has this person's number in their phone and written in their wallet.
- Instruct everyone to text this contact to report their status after a quake.
Done when: Contact is confirmed and everyone has the number saved.
Why: Knowing exactly where to go in 2 seconds prevents panic and indecision.
How:
- Walk through each room.
- Identify sturdy tables or desks to crawl under.
- If no furniture exists, identify interior walls away from windows and tall objects.
Done when: Every family member can point to the safe spot in every room of the house.
Why: Muscle memory is the only thing that works when the ground is shaking violently.
How:
- Drop: Get down on hands and knees.
- Cover: Protect head and neck with arms; crawl under a sturdy table.
- Hold On: Grip the table leg and stay there until shaking stops.
- Practice this at least twice with all household members.
Done when: Drill is completed successfully without hesitation.
Why: Post-quake fires from gas leaks are often more deadly than the earthquake itself.
How:
- Find the main gas valve, water main, and electrical circuit breaker.
- Label them clearly with bright, waterproof tags.
- Attach a dedicated wrench to the gas meter with a wire or string.
Done when: All adults know where the shut-offs are and how to use them.
Why: Physical documents can be destroyed or lost; digital access is vital for recovery.
How:
- Scan IDs, insurance policies, deeds, and medical records.
- Store them on an encrypted USB drive in your Go-Bag and in a secure cloud service.
- Include photos of your home's interior for insurance claims.
Done when: All critical documents are accessible digitally and offline.
Why: This is the most effective way to prevent injury from falling objects during the quake.
How:
- Do not run outside or stand in a doorway.
- If in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow.
- If driving, pull over to a clear area away from overpasses and power lines.
Done when: Shaking has stopped and you are in a protected position.
Why: Immediate treatment of bleeding or shock can prevent life-threatening complications.
How:
- Check yourself first, then others.
- Use your First Aid Kit to treat minor wounds.
- Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger.
Done when: Everyone's physical status is assessed and stabilized.
Why: Gas leaks are invisible but highly explosive; fire is the #1 post-quake hazard.
How:
- Smell for gas (rotten egg odor). If you smell it, shut off the main valve immediately.
- Warning: Only turn off the gas if you suspect a leak. A professional must turn it back on.
- Extinguish small fires with your fire extinguisher.
Done when: Home is confirmed free of immediate fire or gas threats.
Why: Internet and cellular networks may be down; radio is the most reliable source of official info.
How:
- Use your battery-powered or hand-crank AM/FM radio.
- Tune to local emergency stations for evacuation orders or shelter locations.
- Save phone battery for emergency texts only.
Done when: You have received the latest official safety updates.
Why: Aftershocks can cause a weakened building to collapse completely.
How:
- If you see large cracks in the foundation or walls, leave immediately.
- Use stairs, never elevators.
- Take your Go-Bag and head to your pre-arranged meeting spot.
Done when: You are in a safe, open area away from structures.
Why: Food, water, and batteries expire, making them useless when you actually need them.
How:
- Set a recurring calendar reminder for every 6 months (e.g., when clocks change).
- Check expiration dates on food and meds.
- Test all flashlights and the emergency radio.
Done when: Calendar invite is set and first check is completed.
Why: People change phone numbers and move; outdated info is a major risk.
How:
- Verify your out-of-state contact is still willing and able to help.
- Update any new school or workplace emergency procedures.
- Print new contact cards for wallets.
Done when: All contact info is verified and updated in all kits.
Why: Annual large-scale drills reinforce habits and remind you to check your prep.
How:
- Register at shakeout.org (usually held every October).
- Perform the full drill at home with all family members.
- Use the drill as a trigger to perform your annual home hazard hunt.
Done when: Annual drill is logged and completed.