STEP 2: Create a disaster-preparedness plan

Will everyone in your household know how to react during and after a strong earthquake? To be ready for the quakes that are certain to happen, it is important that your family have a disaster-preparedness plan. Hold occasional earthquake "drills" to practice your plan. Share your disaster plan with your neighbors and discuss key points with babysitters, house sitters, and house guests.

Your family may be sleeping when the next strong quake hits the Bay Area. After the shaking stops, the lights may be out and broken glass and other dangerous debris may litter the floor, making it unsafe to walk barefoot. Keep a flashlight and a pair of sturdy shoes secured to or within reach of all beds. A good way to do this is to use a drawstring bag tied to a bedpost at the head of the bed for each occupant.

Learn individual skills

1. Practice “drop, cover, and hold on.”
2. Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy desks and tables.
3. Learn how to protect yourself no matter where you are when an earthquake strikes.

Prepare

1. Keep shoes and a working flashlight next to each bed.
2. Teach everyone in your household to use emergency whistles and (or) to knock 3 times repeatedly if trapped. Rescuers searching collapsed buildings will be listening for sounds. 3 short, 3 long and then 3 short is the international signal for S.O.S.
3. Identify the needs of household members and neighbors with special requirements or situations, such as use of a wheelchair, walking aids, special diets, or medication.
4. Take a First Aid/CPR course, if you haven’t already.
5. Know the locations of utility shutoffs and keep needed tools nearby. Know how to turn off the gas, water and electricity to your home. Most home inspection reports will locate these shutoffs. NOTE: Only turn off the gas if you smell or hear leaking gas as only the local utility or qualified personnel should turn the gas back on.
6. Get training on how to properly use a fire extinguisher [video]. Install photoelectric type smoke alarms and test them monthly. Change the batteries one a year or sooner if the alarm emits a “chirping” sound.
7. Locate a safe place outside of your home for your family to meet after the shaking stops.
8. If you live in Berkeley, check with the fire department to see if there is a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in your area. If not, ask how to start one. CERT training is available for FREE to anyone who lives or works in Berkeley. Other communities may have similar programs.