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2. Develop an earthquake plan at home, in your neighborhood,
at school, at work.
If the earthquake hits during the day, family members may be separated
for several hours to several days. Consider your family's possible
needs.
- Do not use telephones in the first hours after a major quake
except for serious emergencies. Completing local telephone calls
will be difficult. Communication to points outside northern California
may be easier. Choose a relative or friend living outside the
Bay Area whom family members may call to report their condition
and location. Make sure family members carry this number with
them at all times.
- Learn to fight fires, to rescue people trapped under debris,
to provide first aid, to find help for dire emergencies, and to
assist others, especially the elderly, immobile, or handicapped.
- The most common cause of earthquake-related fires is broken
gas lines. Everyone should know how to turn off the gas supply
at the meter in case they smell gas after a large earthquake.
Now is the time to buy a special wrench that fits your gas turnoff
valve and to fasten it next to the valve.
- Find out the policy of your local school concerning release
of children after an earthquake. Arrange with neighbors to watch
out for your family and property in case you are not at home.
- Make plans with your family, your neighbors, and your co-workers.
Every business should have an emergency response plan.
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