Earthquake preparedness

Earthquake preparedness involves taking specific actions to manage the risks of seismic events. These actions are categorized into three main groups: survival measures, mitigating measures, and building design. Survival measures focus on immediate needs, such as storing emergency food and water. They also include educating people on how to act during the actual shaking. Mitigating measures aim to minimize the physical damage caused by an earthquake. By reducing the impact of the event, these preparations can save lives and property.

Mitigation often starts with securing the items inside a home or workplace. Large pieces of furniture, such as bookcases and tall cabinets, should be firmly anchored to prevent them from toppling. Electronic devices, including television and computer screens, also need to be secured so they do not fall over. People can further reduce risk by avoiding the storage of heavy objects above beds or sofas. In specialized settings like museums and galleries, professionals may use specific types of waxes to secure delicate objects. Even the furniture itself can be designed to be earthquake-proof to assist in these efforts.

Engineering plays a vital role through the use of seismic codes. These are sets of building requirements designed to increase the resistance of new structures to earthquake forces. In areas prone to seismic activity, engineers use these codes to ensure buildings can withstand shaking. For older buildings that do not meet modern standards, a process called retrofitting is used to increase their strength. These earthquake-resistant designs are also applied to large infrastructure, such as bridges and elevated freeways. It is important to note that these codes do not make a building "earthquake proof." Instead, they aim to limit damage enough to protect the people inside, accepting some limited damage as a necessary trade-off.

Modern building techniques and codes are designed to prevent the total destruction of structures during earthquakes up to 8.5 on the Richter Scale. However, the Richter Scale is not the only factor in safety. The localized shaking intensity is one of the most significant factors in determining how resilient a building will be. Preparedness is viewed as a continuum that moves through different levels of society. It begins with the individual and moves through family, community, and business preparedness. Finally, it reaches the level of non-profit and governmental organizations.

Organizations like the US FEMA use a pyramid model to describe these levels of responsibility. Citizens form the wide foundation at the bottom of the pyramid. Above them sit local governments, then state governments, and finally the federal government at the top. Businesses also play a role through business continuity planning. This involves creating a Disaster Recovery Plan to ensure the company can function after a crisis. The Small Business Administration provides specific resources and worksheets to help small business owners prepare for these disruptions.

Special populations require specific types of preparedness to ensure their safety. Children may feel frightened, confused, or insecure during or after a disaster. People with disabilities often have unique emergency needs that must be planned for in advance. FEMA suggests that these individuals keep copies of prescriptions and a week's supply of medication ready. They should also ensure that devices for medical needs, such as motorized wheelchairs, remain charged. Preparedness also extends to the care of pets and the psychological support of both victims and disaster workers.

Managing utilities is a critical part of home and business safety. Natural gas leaks pose an explosive danger, so all household members must know how to shut off the gas. Property owners should also ensure they have the specific tools required for their gas connections. Similarly, people should learn how to shut off electricity, ideally by turning off individual circuits before the main circuit. It is also vital to know how to turn off the water at the main house valve, though users should be aware that rusty valves might need replacement.

Energy disruptions can cause secondary damage, especially during long-term power outages. While major institutions like hospitals, military bases, and schools often have extensive backup power systems, others may not. The US Department of Energy notes that homeowners and local leaders may need to take an active role in managing energy disruptions. Hospitals, in particular, must follow strict protocols to maintain safe temperatures and provide electricity for life support systems. To increase resilience, many communities are now adopting a multi-hazard approach. This means preparing for several different types of disasters at once rather than focusing on just one.