Disaster Survival Tips

Earthquake Preparedness

What impacts the greatest number of people after a major earthquake? TRANSPORTATION . . . people can't get to where they want to go when the roads and freeways are damaged. How will this impact you, your family and friends? You may be able to hike up to ten miles a day. How many hours or days will it take you to get to your destination?

Take a few minutes to think about the following:
• Discuss your family reunion plan so that everyone knows where to go and who to call after an earthquake. This knowledge will help minimize the fear you experience after an earthquake.
• Talk about how long it could take you all to arrive at the destination.
• Supply your automobiles with an earthquake survival kit and add personal items such as walking shoes, warm clothes, warm hat, pry bar, and extra water for children and the elderly.
• If you are stranded or walking outdoors in the cold, wear windproof/waterproof clothing. Wear a warm hat (an unprotected head may lose up to one-half of the body's total heat production at 40 degrees). Don't drink alcohol while in the cold. It makes the body lose heat faster. If you get cold, slip a garbage bag under your clothing and stuff it with leaves. This is a great insulator.

Earth changes are inevitable. Natural disasters are natural - preparedness for any disaster should be natural. It is my sincere hope and desire that every family work toward 3-day outdoor self-sufficiency. I will continue to send annual motivation tips. You won't get overwhelmed if you do a little at a time.

- Suzanne Tateosian