Earthquake Preparation

Earthquakes are one of the most devastating, and destructive natural disasters out there. Their incredible after affects are unbelievable and very deadly. Earthquakes cannot be detected before hand; therefore they can strike any minute of any day. People can be killed and injured in these earthquakes, but if they take safety precautions they can prevent such happenings. Here are some steps people can take to prepare their home and themselves before an earthquake happens, and during an earthquake.
People can educate themselves about earthquakes so they can be familiar with them if they were to happen. Such as learning about aftershocks, this is an earthquake of similar or lesser intensity that follows the main earthquake. It is smart to have a family plan if an earthquake were to happen. Some things in that plan may be knowing the safe spot in each room, physically practice safety drills, have a first-aid handy, know CPR, and having a place where you and your family can reunite if separated. You should prepare your house, and what’s in it. A lot of the damage caused by an earthquake is from objects in your house. During the shaking, cabinets and the things that are in it topple, the windows shatter, and hanging plants and light fixtures fall. You can reduce the risk of injuries and damage to your house by removing, moving, fastening or simply latching the items that are more likely to fall over and seriously injure someone to something that can withstand all of the shaking of an earthquake.
Some safety measures you can take when an earthquake actually occurs are minimizing your movements; only take a couple small steps to a close by place that may be safer. Try not to panic, instead steady yourself and try to think clearly. When you feel an earthquake happening (shaking of the ground), you should duck under a sturdy table or desk. Don’t move or let go of that object until the shaking stops. Stay as far away from bookcases, windows, heavy mirrors, file cabinets, hanging plants, hanging light fixtures, or any other heavy objects that could harm you.
Those are the most important things you should do to prepare your house and yourself if an earthquake were to occur. Even though earthquakes can be extremely dangerous, the precautions and safety measures you can take may someday save your life.

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