Being prepared for an earthquake is something everyone who lives in earthquake prone areas should do. Learning what to do, planning escape routes, stocking up on survival gear and emergency kits you may need, making an emergency contact list and copying important documents are just a few of the recommended steps.
If an earthquake does strike….here is an acronym to help you remember some of the important steps you should take.
S.H.A.K.E.
S – Structure: Always know where the solid structure is around you, such as heavy doorways and get to it.
H – Hold On: Hold on to whatever structure you’re sheltered under, even if it’s just a heavy table.
A – Aftershocks: Be ready for an immediate aftershock (which is really a delayed continuation of the main event)
K – Know: Know where your escape routes are and where debris or HazMat dangers might come from.
E – Evacuate: Safely evacuate the area you’re in, especially if it has sustained appreciable damage.
You can find many tips like this is our preparedness resource section on 1-800-prepare.com and in Disaster Prep 101 (A great book by one of our advisers – Paul Purcell)