The energy created from the shifting around and breaking of the earth’s subterranean rock during an earthquake can cause widespread damage and destruction. Earthquakes are, unfortunately, also very unpredictable and can strike unexpectedly.
If you live or work in an area prone to earthquakes, you need to know ahead of time what you can do to contain the damage and effectively respond to and recover from it.
How Can You Be Prepared Before and During an Earthquake?
Before an earthquake strikes, there are a few steps you and your family can take to prepare in case of a disaster:
Make an emergency earthquake kit: When making an earthquake kit list, be sure to include enough nonperishable food and water to last three days. Don’t forget about other emergency essentials, including pet food, a flashlight, first-aid kit, hand-crank or battery-operated radio, can opener and phone charger.
Create a family emergency plan: Everyone in your family should have a designated place to meet as well as an emergency contact person you can reach if you get separated.
Practice what to do in a disaster: If you are inside your home during an earthquake, you want to “drop, cover and hold on.” Your family can practice this drill together. First, find an interior wall or sturdy piece of furniture. Try to stay away from windows if possible. Then, either get as close to the wall as possible or crawl under furniture. After you are on the ground, cover your head and neck. Keeping your head protected, try holding on to the wall or furniture for support until the earthquake is over. If you are outside, be sure to move as far away from utility wires, buildings and streetlights and then practice the same drop, cover and hold on technique.
Make sure your home is “earthquake-proof:” To prevent widespread damage, inspect your home to make sure it’s earthquake-proof. One way you can help keep your family safe is by securing any loose items such as bookshelves, mirrors or light fixtures. You can also have a professional inspect your home and property. They can point out issues such as weak crawl space walls or pier-and-post foundations that could collapse and cause destruction.
Count on URI for Full-Service Earthquake Preparation and Restoration Services
At URI, we can help you be more prepared for an earthquake through our disaster planning services. The contingency plan you create will cover everything from crafting an earthquake preparedness checklist to developing multilevel strategies to contain the damage.
If you are dealing with the aftermath of an earthquake, our complete restoration and recovery services ensure you receive immediate support and a coordinated, timely response. We can help you get through the damage with services ranging from debris removal to temporary power and distribution services.
As a regional leader in emergency planning and response solutions, you can count on our team to get your home or business stable following an earthquake. To get started, contact us today.
