How to Help Your Community Prepare for an Earthquake

Last Updated: May 6, 2021

Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning. Many people are not educated about the risks of earthquakes. Follow these steps to help your community prepare for an earthquake.

Steps

1
Publish a special section in your local newspaper with emergency information on earthquakes. Localize the information by printing the phone numbers of local emergency services offices, the American Red Cross, and hospitals.
2
Purchase and use "Self Powered Radios" and "Self Powered Flashlights". Batteries will be difficult to impossible to find in the event a quake hits. The latest models, especially the "Eton" model will also charge your cell phone. To use, follow manufacturer's instructions.

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3
Purchase and use "Glow Sticks" as well. Ruptured gas lines will be the reason that candles being used will be forbidden, as is accumulation of flammable, even explosive gases being present. This is to minimize the chance of fire as well.
4
Conduct a week-long series on locating hazards in your home.
5
Work with local emergency services and American Red Cross officials to prepare special reports for people with mobility impairments on what to do during an earthquake.
6
Provide tips on conducting earthquake drills in your home.
7
Interview representatives of the gas, electric, and water companies about shutting off utilities.
8
Work together in your community to apply your knowledge to building codes, retrofitting programs, hazard hunts, and neighborhood and family emergency plans.

Community Q&A

Question

Do I need batteries to prepare for an earthquake?

Community Answer

Yes, because then you can use flashlights and battery powered radios to see what's going on.
Question

How can a community prepare for an earthquake?

Michael Ventura Aguirre

Community Answer

Take the time now to collect the emergency supplies you will need if the power goes out, water supplies are cut off, and grocery stores are not open. You can build your supplies over time by adding a few items as your budget permits.
Question

Did you forget that we also need to evacuate?

Community Answer

This article covers steps we can take before an earthquake happens.