Before the Shaking Starts … 

Prepare Your Family

• Know the safe spots in each room: against inside walls, under sturdy tables, desks or supported doorways.
• Know the danger spots: windows, mirrors hanging objects, fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.
• Practice drills. Physically place yourself in safe locations. This is especially important for children to know and do.
• Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from your local Red Cross chapter or other community organization or local fire department.
• Keep a listing of emergency numbers.

Prepare Your Home

• Learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity (If lines are damaged)
• Keep breakables or heavy objects on bottom shelves.
• Secure tall heavy furniture which could topple, such as bookcases, china cabinets or wall units.
• Secure water heaters and appliances which could move enough to rupture gas or electricity lines.
• Secure hanging plants and heavy picture frames or mirrors (especially over beds).
• Put latches on cabinet doors to hold closed during shaking.
• Keep flammable or hazardous liquids such as paints, pest sprays or cleaning products in the garage or outside shed.
• Check chimneys, roofs, walls and foundation for structural condition.
• Maintain emergency food, water and other supplies, including a flashlight, a portable battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medicines, first aid kit and clothing.

During The Shaking

• If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table or stand in a doorway or corner.
• If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees,buildings, walls and power lines.
• If driving, pull your car to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses or power lines. Remain inside until the shaking is over.
• If in a high rise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a table. Do not use the elevators.
• If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors. Move away from display shelves containing objects that may fall.

After The Shaking Stops

• Check for injuries. Apply first aid. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger. 
• Do not use the telephone unless there is a severe injury or fire.
• Hunt for hazards:
  • Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring or sewage lines. If there is damage, turn utility off at the source.
  • Check building for cracks and damage, including roof, chimneys and foundation.
  • Check food and water supplies. Emergency water may be obtained from water heaters melted ice cubes, toilet tanks and canned vegetables.
  • Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. Cooperate fully with public safety officials.
  • Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.

Be prepared for aftershocks.

Don’t panic!!

Stay calm and lend a hand to others in need.

For more information on Earthquakes, preparing for earthquakes or general disaster preparedness information, go the the California Office of Emergency Services Web site at http://www.oes.ca.gov