Earthquake Emergency Survival Guide - Family Preparedness Plan


Emergency Supplies

Keep enough Supplies in your home to meet your need for at least three days
Assemble an emergency supplies kit with items you may need in an evacuation, store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry-containers such as backpacks, duffle bags or covered trash containers.
Include:
A three day supply of water (4 litres per person per day) and food that won't spoil
One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person
A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications
Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
An extra set of all important keys and a credit card, cash or traveller's cheque
Sanitation supplies
Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
An extra pair of glasses
Keep important family documents in a water proof container. Keep a smaller kit in the trunk of your car
Utilities
Locate the main electric fuse box, water service main and natural gas main
Learn how and when to turn these utilities off
Teach all family members. Keep necessary tools near gas and water shut-off valves
Turn off the utilities only if you suspect the lines are damaged or if you are instructed to do so

 

Guide During Disaster

Do not panic. Remain calm! Do not jump from the building
If Inside
If you are NEAR AN EXIT, leave the building as soon as possible. Put your arms over head to protect yourself against possible objects falling from above and move away from nearby buildings. Watch out for traffic
If you can reach the EXIT quickly or you are situated in HIGHRISE BUILDING/UPSTAIRS stay inside... do "DROP, COVER and HOLD" Sit or, lie beside or underneath sturdy furniture. Hold on to the furniture. Cover as much of your head and your upper body as you can. When the shaking stops get up and evacuate the building. Don't use the elevators
If Outdoors
Move to an open area away from all structures especially buildings, bridges and overhead power lines
If Driving
Stop in an open area away from all structures especially bridges, overpasses, tunnels and overhead power lines. Stay as low as possible inside the vehicle.

 

Guide Before Disaster

Develop a family emergency plan and practice it regularly
Identify an out-of area phone contact person to call and check in with,
Choose a couple of family meeting places; pick easy-to identify, open and accessible places that you can likely walk to.
Prepare to be self sufficient for a minimum of three days
Assemble an emergency supply kit; include food, water, prescription medicines and first aid supplies, a battery operated radio, flashlight, extra batteries, shelter clothing, sturdy shoes and personal toiletries.
Have knowledge about first aid.
Quake-proof your house by securing heavy furniture and objects

 

Guide After Disaster

STAY CALM! Allow a little time for objects to fall before moving
Move cautiously and check for unstable objects and other hazards above and around you
Check yourself for injuries
Help those around you and provide first aid.
Only use phones (including cell phones) if a life is at stake.
Listen to the radio or, watch local TV for emergency information and additional safety instructions.
Inspect gas, water and electric lines. If there are leaks or, if there is any doubt about leaks, shut off mains; evacuate immediately if you hear or smell gas and can't shut it off. Report leaks to the uthorities
Anticipate aftershocks, especially if the shaking lasted longer
Stay out of damaged buildings