Being prepared for earthquakes can prove a big difference in life

Unlike other types of natural disasters, earthquakes can happen at any time, without any notice. That could be said for the earthquake that shook Kadavu Island on Monday, leaving the villages in shock. But being prepared for an earthquake will make the difference in being able to protect yourself, your family or your home.

We must be prepared for earthquakes as well as knowing what to do during and after an earthquake to stay safe.

Protect yourself and your family by having an earthquake readiness plan in place.

As a family you must draw a plan.

All family members should know the plan especially during earthquakes when power lines would be affected so there would be no electricity.

The family must also have a disaster kit. This kit must have a flashlight. The primary purpose of a flashlight is to provide you light in darkness. It will be an emergency light source during a power-outage during an earthquake.

You must have an emergency supply kit at home and all family members must know where it is. The family disaster kit should include one or two portable containers, such as plastic tubs or book bags, holding the supplies your family would need to survive without outside aid for at least three days following the earthquake. Remember, basic services like electricity, gas, water, sewer and telephone may be out for days following an earthquake.

Also include emergency food and water supplies, extra cash, batteries, medication and other necessary supplies.

You must make your home more resistant to earthquake damage by assessing its structure and contents. Hire a professional contractor to fix weaknesses you find.

If you’re renting, ask your landlord how the home has been strengthened to guard against earthquakes.

Remember if an earthquake hits while you are indoors, stay inside and take cover.

If you’re outdoors when an earthquake happens, then stay outside and do not try to go inside. Below are more safety tips from Safety.com:

If you are indoors when an earthquake hits:

Drop down and take cover under a desk or table. Be prepared to hold on until the shaking stops.

Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to exit.

Stay away from bookcases and other furniture that can fall on you.

Stay away from windows and light fixtures.

If you are in bed – hold on and stay there. Protect your head with a pillow to protect yourself from flying glass and other debris.

If you are in a wheelchair – go to a safe position and lock the wheels.

If you are inside a high-rise – drop, cover and hold on. Avoid windows and other potential hazards. If you are outdoors during an earthquake:

Drop to the ground in a clear spot away from buildings, trees and power lines.

If you are driving – pull over, stop and set your parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles and other things that may fall on your car.