Before a disaster
The American people are well of the dangerous threat of earthquakes looming over them and so have prepared many safety procedures. To inform the people of the dangers and what to and not to do with websites such as Red Cross and Ready Gov. people can be guided to build an emergency kit, make a family communications plan, know the safe spots in every room (under a sturdy table or against an inside wall), ask your family to hold earthquake drills. Any American can easily access information and planning from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. To minimise harm in the case of an earthquake changes have been made to put in place such things as allocating homeland security and funding campaigns to build stronger building to withstand risk assessments. More than 150 public safety practitioners have been introduced at all levels of government to serves as the first nationwide strategic plan to improve emergency communications. Every family should also prepare a plan on where family members will meet, how they will get in contact, where is safety and who is in charge.
Emergency food and water supply:
Have a long storage life
Require little or no cooking, water, or refrigeration, in case utilities are disrupted
Meet the needs of babies or other family members who are on special diets
Meet pets' needs
Are not very salty or spicy, as these foods increase the need for drinking water, which may be in short supply
Cooking utensils
Knives, forks, and spoons
Paper plates, cups, and towels
A manual can- and bottle-opener
Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Gas or charcoal grill; camp stove
Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal.
Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and each pet
Emergency Kit:
A radio
Flashlight
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask and plastic sheeting
Duct tape
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener for food
Local maps
Cell phone
Solar charger
During the disaster
If you are inside a building, stay where you are. Don't run outside or under a doorway as this will not provide protection against falling or flying objects. Drop down to the ground on your hands and knees, and use your hands and arms to protect your head and neck from flying debris. If you can, crawl safely under a sturdy table for protection against falling objects. Stay away from glass, windows or furniture that could fall. Hold onto sturdy covering until the shaking stops. If it isn't possible to get to the floor safely, find a corner inside the room away from windows and objects that might possibly fall on you, protect your head and neck with whatever is available. If the earthquake happens when you're in bed, stay there and cover your head and neck with the pillow. If the earthquake happens when you're outside, move away from streetlights, buildings and utility wires. Drop to the ground, cover your head and neck and hold on until the shaking stops. If this isn't possible, you might have to go into a building to avoid falling debris. If you are in a moving vehicle when the earthquake happens, stop the vehicle as quickly and safely as possible and stay in the vehicle. Avoid buildings, trees and utility wires.
When to evacuate: If authorities indicate to do so or that there is a time to do so, or if you are able to get to a safe location before the expected event occurs.
Evacuation plans should include: Which evacuation would be necessary and under which conditions, the alternative of sheltering in a place and when, a clear chain of positions in command in the workplace authorised to give orders during an evacuation, specific procedures for evacuation including routes and exits, procedures for employers and workers, evacuation procedures in assisting visitors and workers especially those with disabilities or who speak a foreign language, choice of designation of workers to remain behind during an evacuation and shut down critical operations before their own evacuation, and special equipment for workers such as personal protective gear and respiratory protection.
Action Plan
Learn your community’s warning signals, what they sound like and what you should do when you hear them.
Determine at least 2 escape routes from every room in your home
Find the safe spots in your home suitable for the type of disaster. In the instance of an earthquake, practice drop, cover and hold on under a sturdy desk of table.
Each family member should be educated on how to turn off the electricity, water and gas at the main switch.
Each family member should know where the fire extinguisher is kept and how to use it
Periodically quiz your kids and conduct emergency drills to practice your plan
Throughout the year check your emergency supplies to replace batteries, water and food as necessary.
The most effective and efficient form of sending out earthquake warnings would be through device alerts. As most of the population have access to a mobile phone or a computer, sending an alert via text or email would make sure many citizens receive the early warning to be better prepared to face the disaster.
Communication Plan:
Identify a friend or relative to act as an out of town contact, who family members can call to let them know of their safety. As phone lines may be jammed, this might be easier and the out of town contact can communicate among separated family members.
Family members should know how to text. During the event of a disaster it may be easier to make a text than a call
Subscribe to an emergency alert system.
Family members should know how and when to call 911 for help.
Resonse after the detail
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide immediate first aid for anyone who needs it.
Check water, gas, and electric lines for damage. If any are damaged, shut off the valves. Check for the smell of gas. If you smell it, open all the windows and doors, leave immediately, and report it to the authorities (use someone else's phone).
Turn on the radio. Don't use the phone unless it's an emergency.
Stay out of damaged buildings.
Be careful around broken glass and debris. Wear boots or sturdy shoes to keep from cutting your feet.
Be careful of chimneys (they may fall on you).
Stay away from beaches. Tsunamis and seiches sometimes hit after the ground has stopped shaking.
Stay away from damaged areas.
If you're at school or work, follow the emergency plan or the instructions of the person in charge.
Expect aftershocks.
Technology:
Immediate – The scientists look at the aftershocks and determine to identify locations that are likely to experience earthquakes in the future. These aftershocks can help scientists target the origin of the main quake.
Long-term – The researchers/scientists will be re-assessing their examination needs to adjust with the earthquake. To be able to catch the new dangers and set up ahead of schedule warning systems by method for remote-detecting innovation and field examination. Scientist have not yet come up with a way to forecast earthquakes, even though animals have a sixth sense when it comes to vibrations
Funding Example:
Immediate- The money would be used for relief efforts include addressing needs for shelter, water, sanitation, emergency health, food and protection. Furthermore, the formation of "money for-work extends" that expect to give occupations and a pay to survivors while at the same time giving quick that aim to the tremor stricken regions is likewise on the motivation.
Long-term –The UNDP additionally plans to support the American government in deciding and actualising measures that will help lessen the effect of future normal natural disasters and expand the strength of organisations that help during theses times