THE LOS ANGELES EARTHQUAKE : PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR AN EARTHQUAKE

BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE Keep survival items on hand, including a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit and needed medicines, an adjustable wrench for turning off water and gas lines, a few gallons of bottled water for each family member, chlorine bleach to disinfect water (eight to 16 drops per gallon), a week’s supply of canned and dried foods, a portable stove, matches, extra blankets or sleeping bags, and phone numbers for local police and fire departments and your doctor.

Check your dwelling for earthquake hazards. Bolt down or provide strong support for water heaters and other gas appliances. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Brace or anchor tall or top-heavy items. Securely fasten shelves to walls.

Conduct occasional drills to provide family members with the knowledge necessary to avoid injury and panic during quakes. Teach family members first aid and how to turn off gas, electricity and water.

Have a plan to reunite your family if travel is difficult or restricted. DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

Remain calm. Reassure others.

If indoors, watch for falling plaster, bricks, light fixtures and other objects. If you are in danger, get under a table, desk or bed. Stay away from windows, mirrors and chimneys.

If outside, avoid walls, power poles and other objects that could fall. Move to an open area if possible. AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

Check for injured family members and neighbors and provide first aid. Do not attempt to move injured people unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.

Check for fires or fire hazards. Check utilities and appliances for damage. If you smell gas, shut off the main valve, open windows, leave the house and notify your utility. Do not use matches, electrical switches or open flame appliances unless you are sure there is no leak. Shut off electric power if household wiring is damaged, but only if no gas leak is suspected.

Wear shoes if there is broken glass or other debris.

Do not touch downed power lines or objects they may touch.

If water is off, get emergency water from water heaters, toilet tanks, melted ice cubes or canned foods. Avoid eating or drinking anything from open containers near shattered glass.

Don’t go sightseeing in damaged areas or on beaches where tidal waves may strike.

Be prepared for aftershocks.

Monitor emergency broadcasts on your television or portable radio.

Check your chimney for cracks or damage, but approach cautiously. If the chimney is damaged, do not use your fireplace or wood stove.

Do not use your phone except to report fire, gas, medical or violent crime emergencies.