What Are Some Safety Precautions That You Can Adhere to If an Earthquake Occurs?

Earthquakes represent a very real and serious danger to a large portion of the world's inhabitants. Victims of earthquakes face dangers and challenges both during the shaking itself and in the hours and days to follow. While you can do very little to prevent an earthquake, there are simple, practical things you can do before, during and after one that will dramatically improve your chance of survival.

Before: Identify Hazards

• Safely securing glasses and dishes will reduce your risk during an earthquake.

  The key to surviving any disaster is being prepared and earthquakes are no different. The first step to being prepared is to identify potential hazards in your home and correct them. This includes securing tall pieces of furniture, ensuring cabinets close securely and limiting the amount of glass items stored on shelves. Learn where and how to shut off your gas, electric and water.

Before: Identify Safe Locations

• A sturdy desk provides a good location to shelter during an earthquake.

  Locate safe locations in your home. Just as you don't wait for a crash before figuring out where the exits are in an aircraft, you should not wait for an earthquake to determine where best to hide. The best locations are along inside walls, under strong doorways and under sturdy tables or desks. Ensure your entire family knows where these locations are inside your house -- especially children.

Before: Emergency Plan

• Teach your children how to call for emergency help and what to say.

  Create an emergency plan for your family. Discuss how to react if an earthquake occurs and how to contact help. Determine rally points for your family members and develop a communications plan. Anticipate that family members will be in different locations.

Before: Emergency Survival Kit

• Stock your first aid kit with plenty of supplies and include a first aid guide.

  Prepare an emergency survival kit before disaster strikes. You need to be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 hours after a disaster and your emergency kit will be a critical tool.

  Include water, food, first aid items and emergency supplies. You need one gallon of water per day for each person. Include shelf-stable foods that require no cooking. Ensure you have at least a 3-day supply of prescription medications.

During The Earthquake

• If outside, do not attempt to enter buildings during the earthquake.

  If you find yourself inside during an earthquake, drop to the floor and crawl to one of your safe locations. Cover your face and head with your arms. Stay away from glass and large objects that may fall. Remain where you are until the shaking stops. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notes that most injuries occur when people attempt to exit buildings or move around inside structures during the earthquake.

  Move away from structures, light poles and utility wires. FEMA points out that the greatest threat is from collapsing structures, flying glass and falling objects -- not ground movement.

After The Earthquake

• Provide medical assistance, activate your emergency plan and prepare for the next 72 hours.

  You should always expect and prepare for aftershocks and, if in a coastal area, tsunamis. Open cabinets and doors with caution, as items that shifted during the quake can topple out and cause injury. If you smell gas, leave the building immediately.

  Locate those individuals who were with you at the time of the quake and provide medical care if needed. Locate your emergency survival kit and activate your emergency plan.