11 Earthquake Preparedness Tips To Be Ready For The Next Big One

It takes a shake like the Napa quake to bring back to our attention the question, "Am I prepared for an earthquake?"

Gilroy could be the next epicenter and your family could be affected.



Here are the most important  tips of earthquake preparedness. Please share them with friends, family and neighbors.

1. Select an out -of-area phone contact for family members to call and coordinate messages.
2. Develop a family network plan, evacuation, and reunion strategy. 
3. Locate all utility shutoff valves and know how to shut them off. Tie a shut off wrench to the main gas line. 
4. Mitigate earthquake vulnerability: Double strap your water heater to wall studs (1/3 from the top and 1/3 from the bottom to prevent tipping), bolt bookcases and attach mirrors and pictures firmly to the wall, move heavy stuff from upper shelves to lower shelves.
5. Store heavy shoes and gloves (most injuries in the Napa quake were cuts from glass) under your bed. 
6. Prepare a 72-hour family emergency supply kit and store in plastic containers and tape shut with duct tape.
7. Take photos or a video of your home (interior and exterior) to document its condition and contents. Store in a bank safety deposit box or fire proof safe for future use.
8. Check with your insurance carrier to make sure you have appropriate earthquake coverage.
9. If you are indoors: a) stay clear of window and fireplaces, b) duck and drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy placed furniture piece, hold on to it and ride it out
10. If you are outdoors: a)Get into the open away from power lines, b) if you are driving, pull over and stop. Turn off your engine, and do not stop under heavy objects or power lines, c) if you are in a crowded public place, do not rush for exits. Try and stay calm, d) NEVER enter damaged buildings unless authorities tell you it is safe to do so.
11. Get trained in CPR and First Aid

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BECAUSE I CARE ABOUT YOU... 

Call me at 408-706-0671 
if you would like a walk-through of your home and a  free written estimate what it is worth in  today's market together with a picture of your home to put in your earthquake deposit box.

Silvia Bichler
Your Real Estate Friend in the South County
CalBre # 01942849
Keller Williams San Jose - Silicon Valley