Surviving an earthquake ... without electricity!!!
November 2004
Alaska is earthquake country. In the event of an earthquake, or some other natural
disaster, are you prepared to be without power for hours or perhaps several days? Do
you know what to do before, during and after an earthquake?
Plan ahead.
Teach everyone over 10 years of age how to turn off utilities.
Coordinate with your neighbors. Know how to shut off their utilities too.
Make plans for the disabled, particularly those that are on electrically-powered life support equipment. You might want to consider a portable generator.
Assemble a first aid and emergency kit, which includes a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable radio with batteries and a manual can opener.
If your home water supply comes from a well, keep a five-gallon container filled with water and stored out of the way. Remember, if your power goes off so will your pump.
Secure top-heavy appliances such as water heaters to the walls with straps.
During a quake:
Stay away from appliances that could slide or fall from their current location, such as stereos, televisions and microwaves.
Stay away from telephone and power poles.
After a quake:
Check for broken electrical wiring.
Turn off electricity if you suspect wiring damage.
Avoid downed power poles and power lines. They can still carry current. Rescuing someone in contact with a power line is dangerous. Call 911 or the power company to handle the rescue work.
Clean up spills of hazardous materials such as gasoline. A simple electrical spark could start a fire.
|
