Earthquake preparedness important part of home safety plan

Preparing and planning is essential for earthquake safety. The New Madrid Seismic Zone experiences about 200 small earthquakes a year, and scientists say it’s only a matter of time before large earthquakes strike the region again. Unlike some other disasters, earthquakes provide no advance warning. The State Emergency Management Agency works with many government and voluntary agencies, businesses, and schools to ensure a coordinated, effective response to the challenges a major earthquake would pose.

What to do before an earthquake:

• Identify safe spots and danger zones in each room.

• Buy a large garbage can to store bottled drinking water, canned and dried non-perishable food that does not need to be cooked (tuna and crackers, for example), a can opener, flashlights, first aid supplies, battery powered radio, seasonal clothing, and blankets. It may also become your “go kit” if you need to leave your home.

• Know how to shut off all utilities.

• Be sure your house is firmly anchored to its foundation.

• Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.

• Store bottled foods, glass, china, and other breakable items on low shelves or in cabinets that can fasten shut. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

• Brace bookshelves and heavy furniture to walls to keep them from toppling.

• Repair defective electrical wiring.

• Install flexible lines to water heaters, gas stoves and other appliances.

• Securely fasten water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs.

Visit Missouri Earthquake Preparedness (mo.gov) to learn more ways to be prepared for an earthquake.