Saratoga News

Homes

Don't duck and cover--now it's drop, cover, hold on

Plan ahead, be prepared for quake or other emergency

By Jean Newton

While the 100th anniversary of the 1906 earthquake is on everyone's mind, it is the perfect time to get ready for the next "big one" that could strike at any time. Knowing how to prepare and how to survive an earthquake is essential for those who live in earthquake country.

One of the most important first steps is to establish an emergency plan that applies to any disaster--earthquakes, terrorism, fires, floods or other catastrophic events. Communication is key and may be hampered by the disaster, so selecting an out-of-town family contact will help family members stay in touch. The emergency plan should take into consideration the routines of family members and incorporate plans for different locations such as school or work.

At home, the American Red Cross recommends choosing a safe place in every room that is either under a sturdy table or desk or against an inside wall where nothing can fall on top of a person. If there is no table or desk, family members need to stay away from windows or large objects such as bookcases or hutches that could fall on them. They should sit on the floor next to an interior wall. Other dangerous spots include near mirrors, hanging objects and fireplaces. Twice a year, family members should practice the drill of drop, cover and hold on--a variation of the old "duck and cover" advice.

While many people believe it's better to be outside than inside during an earthquake, the American Red Cross says if someone is inside they should stay there until the shaking stops and it's safe to exit. If outdoors, find a clear spot away from falling debris, buildings, trees and power lines and drop to the ground. When driving a car, slow down, drive to a clear spot and stay in the car until the shaking is over.

When the shaking stops, check for injuries and administer first aid if necessary. Since fire is one of the biggest concerns after an earthquake, look for and extinguish any small fires. Turn off the gas if it is leaking. Listen to the radio for instructions and expect aftershocks. When it is safe, inspect the home and move everyone out if the structure is damaged. Use the telephone only to report life-threatening emergencies.

Knowing what to do during a disaster can save lives and help others. Many neighbors in Los Gatos and Monte Sereno have organized for disaster preparedness through the Community Emergency Response Team, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. CERT is one of the most visible town emergency preparedness programs, with upcoming courses offered at the end of April and in May on such topics as disaster preparedness, light search and rescue, damage assessment and neighbored preparedness. For more information about the classes, call the CERT Hotline at 408.399.5722 or email cert@losgatosca.gov.

Homeowners can take a proactive approach by taking inventory of hazards that could cause harm or damage in the event of an earthquake, then taking the time to repair or retrofit. Some of the items to watch out for include: strapping the water heater to wall studs; making sure overhead light fixtures are braced and heavy items, such as china cabinets and bookcases, that could move or fall are secured; fastening shelves securely and moving large, heavy objects to lower shelves; installing strong latches on cupboards to prevent dishes and other items from flying out; hanging pictures and mirrors away from beds; and repairing any cracks in ceilings or foundations. Computers, TVs and other smaller but potentially dangerous items that could cause damage if they fall should also be secured.

Hazardous materials such as weed killers, pesticides or other flammable products can be a problem, so they need to be stored correctly. It's also important to clean and repair chimneys, flues and gas vents as well as repair any leaky gas connections.

Professional help may be required to make sure homes could withstand an earthquake. The Association of Bay Area Governments has a Home Health Quiz that homeowners can take online to determine whether their home needs to be evaluated and/or retrofitted. Some of the items to consider include the specific design of a home, the quality of construction, state of repair, location, when built and the type of construction. While homeowners may be able to do some of the work themselves, sometimes a structural engineer or other professional with a specific expertise is needed. The ABAG website also has an interactive Shaking Hazards map that shows the location and degree of intensity that could occur at any location throughout the Bay Area.

A disaster supply kit is also an essential component of a good preparedness plan, since people may be isolated for several days. The kit should contain first aid supplies and essential medications, canned food, a can opener and at least 3 gallons of water per person. The kit should also include a battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries. Written instructions as to how to turn off gas, electricity and water are helpful. Don't forget special items needed for infants, the elderly or disabled family members. Extra clothes that shield against the elements and bedding or sleeping bags could also come in handy. Some people like to keep a smaller kit packed and ready to go in the car and shoes and a flashlight beside the bed for a quick response during a disaster.

The town of Los Gatos offers a wealth of information about disaster preparedness, including a comprehensive family emergency preparedness guide and details about creating an emergency preparedness kit for the home, office or car, on the website at www.losgatos.ca.gov.

To start the planning process and get earthquake ready, check out these additional websites for more information: www.santaclaravalley.redcross.org, www./sccgov.org, www.abag.ca.gov.