Earthquakes happen without warning, so you need to be prepared and know how to respond. Based on information from the U.S. Geological Survey, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross, it is recommended that you: 

• Know the earthquake potential of the area in which you live. Fault-zone maps can be obtained from your city or county planning department.
• Develop a family earthquake drill and practice it periodically. Make sure children know both the safe and the dangerous spots in each room of your home.
• Appoint an out-of-town contact that everyone can check in with after an earthquake in case you get separated.
• Check your home for potential hazards. Fasten down water heaters and gas appliances. Secure large appliances to the wall or floor. Bolt bookcases and other heavy furniture to the wall studs.
• Make sure family members know how and when to shut off water, electricity and gas at main switches and valves.
• Place large and heavy objects on lower shelves. Store bottled goods, glass, china and breakables in low or closed cabinets.
• Repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations.
• Use closed-loop hooks to hang pictures, hanging plants or other dangling objects.

Your Disaster Supplies Kit

Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing the following:

• A supply of water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
• Nonperishable food and a can opener
• A first aid kit and manual
• A supply of prescription medications
• A portable radio and flashlight, both with extra batteries
• Written instructions on how to turn off your home's utilities, and tools for doing so
• Extra blankets and sleeping bags
• Protective clothing and sturdy shoes
• An extra set of car keys, cash and credit cards
• Pet supplies
• Waterproof, heavy-duty plastic bags for waste disposal