San Francisco Chronicle - (Sunday)

DISASTER CHECKLIST

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BEFORE

BBBBBBBBBB­BBBBBBBBBB­AFTER

BBBBThings you should do before and after a disaster strikes Download this guide as a PDF (see page 2 for instructio­ns)

Download apps that will be useful during an emergency

Compile a list of where to get emergency informatio­n, including radio stations, social networks, websites and public safety alerts. Keep the list in your car and in your home

Microchip your pets

Take photos of your belongings

Review and update your insurance coverages

Make copies of your important documents and store them in a safe place or on the cloud

Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors at least twice a year Replace your smoke detectors at least once every 10 years

Check your fire extinguish­ers and make sure they and other firefighti­ng tools are easily accessible

Pack emergency survival kits for your home and car — don’t forget items for your pets

Plan and practice family escape routes from your home and establish a meeting place

Have family discussion­s about safe places in the home when an earthquake hits Assign family members’ responsibi­lities during an emergency, such as contacting other family members, turning off the gas and gathering pets

Know where your gas shutoff valve is and have necessary tools easily accessible Maintain a defensible zone around your home

Notify PG&E if you notice unsafe power lines

Identify combustibl­e building materials and replace them if possible Prepare your home to survive a massive quake

Consider buying alternate power and communicat­ion devices Seek federal assistance, mortgage relief, tax relief and unemployme­nt benefits Contact your insurance provider and start a claim as soon as possible Consider counseling as you rebuild your life

Reach out to family — for your sake and theirs

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