2. Know how to turn the electrical, gas appliances and water supply off.
3. Keep water heaters, gas stoves and other appliances firmly fixed against supports, and keep these switched of when not in use.
4. Top heavy objects should be kept firmly fixed, braced or anchored.
5. Keep inflammable material dispersed, and as far away as possible from electrical and gas lines.
6. Keep a stock of water/dry sand for extinguishing fire at an accessible place (unlikely to be blocked by earthquake damage)
7. Know, establish and practice how to get out of the dangerous areas during an earthquake.
8.Train as many persons as possible in first aid rescue work and fire fighting.
9. Keep stock of drinking water. Some dry food stuff, first aid equipment, a crowbar, shovel, pick and rope, electric torch, some candles and a helmet for every family member.
10. Keep telephone numbers/ addresses of the nearest first aid post and fire station handy (near the telephone if one exists).
What to do when Earthquake Occurs:
Earthquake vibrations start all of a sudden. You may be sleeping, you may be awake, you may be in bath room, may be on a toilet seat or under the shower.
1. If you are in open space, remain calm and quite, move away from any tall structure, tree or pole. Do not panic, and do not run to protect others, until vibrations cease.
2. If you are inside a house, a bulding or in a factory, reamin calm and choose a safe place to move to an open area. Do not use lifts.
3. If caught indoor, take shelter in some safe area away from walls. Do not put lights on, do not light candles or lamps. Torch may be used, if available.
4.If you are in a car, stop as quickly as safety permits, stay in the car until the vibrations cease.
Though earthquake vibrations cease after some time, the risk due to the earthquake continues. The worst might not have been over.
1. Check the electric and gas appliances for breakage, but do not turn any of these on. Also check the water supply and electric lines. In case of any actual or suspected damage close the supply at the mains.
2. Turn the radio/TV on to get the latest information / warnings/ advice. Keep it on.
3. Stay away from damaged buildings. These may crash later in an aftershock.