Earthquake and Storm Safety

By Jodi Bryson

Powerful storms and earthquakes are obviously terrifying. But imagine how much less terrifying a storm or 'quake would be if you have taken a few basic steps to prepare your family for the worst. Here, we've compiled specific safety precautions you need to take in event of tornado, earthquake, hurricane, or flash flood, as well as some additional pointers for keeping your family safe and sound.

Tornado
Perhaps the only good thing you can say about a tornado is that you are usually given advance warning that it is coming your way. That's why it's crucial to invest in a weather radio so you can listen to the local forecast even if your power goes out. When a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter in a basement or storm cellar. If you don't have access to one, kneel in a closet in the inside of the house. Face the wall, and put your hands over your head. And never under any circumstances try to outrun a twister in your car. Your car is one of the most dangerous places to be during a tornado.

Earthquake
Unlike tornadoes, you'll receive no warning that an earthquake is imminent. The American Red Cross recommends developing a family home earthquake safety plan by choosing a safe place in every room -- under a sturdy table or desk or against an inside wall where nothing can fall on you. Teach your kids to "drop, cover, and hold on." If you feel the ground start to tremble beneath you, crouch in this safe place, and cover your face and head with your arms. Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. If you are outside when an earthquake strikes, move away from the sides of buildings, overhead wires, trees, and other hazards.

Hurricane
When you live in hurricane-prone areas, it's important to prepare a personal evacuation plan. Ahead of time, identify several places you could go, like an out-of-town family member's house, or a hotel, or shelter. Keep a map handy, since you might have to take alternate routes if the roads are jammed or closed. And try to keep at least a half-tank of gas in your car at all times in case you have to evaluate on short notice. When a hurricane warning is issued, evacuate immediately. Take important documents with you when you are evacuating, such as driver's licenses and birth certificates. Don't forget any prescription medications, baby necessities (like diapers) or medical supplies.

Flood
First, review your insurance coverage to make sure you have adequate flood insurance. Many Americans are underinsured. When a flash flood warning is issued, evacuate immediately.  You could have mere seconds to escape, so do not hesitate. Move to higher ground away from rivers or storm drains. Never attempt to drive on a flooded street -- your car could be swept away in seconds. If your car stalls in rising waters, abandon it and climb to higher ground.

Here, a few other general guidelines for disaster preparedness:

1. Fasten furniture: "Securing furniture prevents objects from shifting and blocking your exit areas," says Sherry Heintz, owner and president of QUAKE KARE Inc, a preparedness education and emergency products e-commerce company. "This is also smart for general safety because countless children are killed every year climbing on a bookshelves, for example, if it tips over on them."

2. Level with your kids: "Get down on the ground and see what your kids' perspective would be and see if there's anything dangerous," says Heitz. "Make sure there are no loose objects near or above a bed that could fall and hit your child in the event of an emergency."

3. Install auto-valves: "You want automatic gas shutoff valves installed, even on your gas dryer, to prevent a fire following an earthquake or tornado," Heitz explains.

4. Assemble an emergency kit: "Emergency personnel have so much to do that they might not be able to get to you and your family for a few days or more, and that means you'll be totally on your own," says Heitz. She says there are a few items specific to each disaster, but that the contents of the general emergency kit will take care of you and your family. Emergency kits are available to purchase in stores or online, or, you can make your own.  Here are the basics available in a general emergency kit:

• Water for three days per person. Purchase water-purification tablets and 5-gallon container in case you have to purify your own water.
• Food for three days per person. Energy bars have excellent shelf life.
• Shelter gear. This includes emergency ponchos, thermal blankets, a tent, and tarps to create a canopy.
• Lighting supplies. Stock up on candles and waterproof and windproof matches. Make sure you have several working flashlights and fluorescent lanterns.
• First-aid kit. Medical supplies you need to have on hand include compresses, antiseptics, bandages, gauze pads, and prescription medications.
• Shut-off wrench. If you haven't installed auto-valves, you'll need to shut off the gas to prevent fire.
• Two-story escape ladder.
• Crowbar and/or ax. In the event of a flood from storm or hurricane, you might need to chop through a wall or your roof to escape.
• Weather radio or solar-operated AM/FM radio.
• Restroom wipes and a 55-gallon container. This will serve as a makeshift toilet.

5.  Run Home Drills: Run emergency drills at home so the entire family knows where to go and what to do during an earthquake or storm. "Drills are wonderful because they significantly reduce the panic factor," Heitz concludes. "Go through your emergency kit so kids will know where to find supplies and exactly what to do with them when it matters most."

Jodi Bryson is a freelance writer based in San Francisco, California. 

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