What to do before an earthquake.

1. The key to effective disaster prevention is planning. Evaluate the structural soundness of the buildings and places where you frequently stay. Determine whether the site is traversed by a ground fracture technically known as a fault, which may give way or cause the building to fall. Note the presence of other potential sources of hazards due to secondary effects of earthquakes like steep hillslopes, hanging heavy objects, dams, storage tanks, falling debris, and others. After this evaluation process, you should be more aware of the hazards which need attention or consideration.

2. Prepare your place of residence for the event. Most causes of injuries during earthquakes are from sliding and falling objects. Hooks should be installed on drawers, cabinets, and cupboards. Heavy materials should be identified and placed in the lower compartments of cabinets. Breakable items should be secured while harmful chemicals and flammable materials should be stored properly to minimize the possibility of falls or spills.

3. Strap heavy furniture to restrict sliding or toppling during earthquakes. It is also advisable to provide blocks to stop the movement of furnishings or equipment on wheels. The chances that an earthquake could hit when you are in bed is as high as when you are on your feet. Therefore, check your bedroom for hanging or unstable objects which may fall on you during earthquakes.

4. Familiarize yourself with your place of work. Know and master the routes to take to get out of your building. Also, find and mark the places where the fire the fire extinguisher, first-aid kits, alarms, utilities, and communication facilities are located. One thing to note, though: do not use the elevators during and after an earthquake. Any structural or power failure can cause you to be stranded indefinitely in the elevator.

5. Lastly, but most importantly, plan on coping with the event. It is wiser to prepare an emergency plan to cope with the disaster than to regret the absence of anticipation later. Prepare a stock of potable water, flashlight, radio and batteries, spare clothes, and some food packed and ready to take with you in case an earthquake forces you to evacuate your place. The authorities may take some time to react to your needs since it is possible that they may also be affected by the event. Discuss with your family a reunification plan and identify a contact person or place in case you get separated or in case an event occurs when one family member is away.