Section: How Prepared Are You?

Earthquake Preparedness

Added By: Megan Smith

We’d all like to think that we’d know what to do if a high-magnitude earthquake hit our neighborhood. But chances are, there are a few things that you may need a refresher on when it comes to earthquake safety. Take this quiz and find out where you stand:

Earthquake Preparedness Quiz

1. How long should you be prepared to be on your own after an earthquake?
A. a few hours
B. a day
C. three days
D. a week
2. Which is the easiest fix to make in your home to make it safer in the case of earthquakes?
A. strapping down your water heater
B. moving heavy furniture
C. getting rid of plaster
D. securing an air conditioner
3. Which of the following is NOT a good idea to earthquake-proof your living space?
A. Bolt heavy furniture to the wall
B. Remove heavy objects from high shelves or near your sleeping area
C. Move your bed towards the window so you have another exit option.
D. Hang pictures on hooks so they are less likely to fall and injure someone.
4. After an earthquake, you should do all of the following EXCEPT:
A. Go to the beach as your rendezvous spot for your family diasaster plan.
B. Check gas, electric, and power lines.
C. Care for the elderly, injured, or disabled.
D. Be prepared for aftershocks
5. Which of the following should you do to help cope with psychological stress following an earthquake?
A. Talk about your disaster experiences.
B. Get away from home and repairs and spend time with friends.
C. Rebuild personal relationships, such as with a significant other.
D. All of the above
6. True or False: A kitchen or garage is the safest place to be during an earthquake.
7. True or False: You should avoid using the phone unless it’s a life-threatening emergency.
8. True or False: If you are in your car during a quake, you should stop your car in an open space and stay in your car.
9. True or False: If you are inside during a quake, you should get outside as soon as possible.
10. True or False: If you are trapped under debris, you should yell as loud and as long as possible so someone will hear you and come for help.

Answer Key: 1. C, you should have enough supplies to last you that long. 2. B, anyone can do this to prevent heavy furniture from moving and crushing someone during a quake. 3. C, the glass in the window is extremely dangerous during an earthquake 4. A, tsunamis are still a threat following an earthquake. 5. D, all of these are good ideas to help get your life back to normal. 6. F, these places have too many hazardous objects that could cause injury. An uncrowded hallway is probably the safest place. 7. T, phone lines will most likely be down, and only emergencies should be reported to keep the phone lines clear. 8. T, make sure you are not under an overpass or bridge. 9. F, many people are injured during an earthquake because they are moving around during the shaking. Get under something sturdy and stay there until the earth stops moving. 10. F, too much dust will enter your lungs, tap a pipe instead.

Now those are just a few basics about earthquake safety, but there are lots of resources online that extensively detail what you should do before, during, and after an earthquake. The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross both have excellent information about earthquakes and other natural disasters as well. Most importantly, have a family disaster plan and an emergency kit stored in an accessible area.