Every year, over 15,000 earthquakes occur in New Zealand. Only 100-150 of these are large enough to be felt, and most are not strong enough to cause major damage. But as New Zealanders are well aware, dangerous and deadly earthquakes can happen at any time.

We cannot yet predict earthquakes. Until we can, creating a family safety plan is the best defence against these unpredictable events.

Be prepared

Developing a family plan will help everyone in your household know what to do and where to go in the event of an emergency.

• Gather family contact numbers. Not every family member may be home when an earthquake hits. Write down all mobile, work, and school numbers for each person. Remember to include landlines, as mobile networks can be overloaded in emergency situations.
• Draw a map. Sketch a plan of your house and garden, showing places to shelter during an earthquake. Include exits and a safe assembly area(s) where you’ll meet once the shaking stops. Finally, note where the water, electricity, and gas turn offs are should the pipes or lines break.
• Assemble an emergency kit. Having survival items at the ready is practical for any crisis situation. Include items such as a first aid kit, a torch with spare batteries, blankets, drinking water, and non-perishable food. Assign someone to check and replenish batteries, water and food items every three months.
• Secure heavy items. Strong shaking can topple furniture or bring wall items crashing to the ground. Check that all bookcases, bureaus, mirrors, artwork, televisions and other heavy items are secured to the wall or floor.
• Practise your plan. Creating a plan is a good start, but regularly practising it will help everyone remain calm in an actual emergency. Running through your family plan will especially help children learn earthquake safety. Set aside time once a month to review, practise, and revise your plan.

This printable checklist from the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management will help you create your own household emergency plan.

Don’t panic

When an earthquake hits, try to remain calm. Practising your safety plan will better prepare you for this moment, and will hopefully help you keep a clear head.

• If you’re indoors: Find a safe spot no more than a few steps away from where you are. DROP to your hands and knees, COVER your head and neck (or entire body, if possible) under a sturdy table or desk, and HOLD on to your shelter until the shaking stops. If no shelter is close by, crawl to an inside corner of the room and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
• If you’re outdoors: Move no more than a few steps away from any buildings, trees, streetlights, or power lines. After reaching a safe area, drop, cover, and hold. 
• If you’re driving: Pull over to a clear area, and stay in your car with the seatbelt fastened. Proceed with caution after the shaking stops. Avoid bridges or elevated ramps that may have been damaged during the quake.

For more info on earthquake safety, visit the Get Ready, Get Thru website.

After the quake

The shaking has stopped, but it’s important to remain alert. Aftershocks are common, and can sometimes match the original earthquake in intensity.

• Stay indoors. Evacuating your home is not necessary unless it is showing obvious signs of damage. Aftershocks can cause trees, streetlights, or power lines to topple, putting you in harm’s way if you’re unable to get clear of them in time. If evacuation is necessary, take only the essentials with you—wallet, purse, coat, medicines. Even better, create getaway kits to store with your emergency kit. Include “survival” items should you need to relocate for a few days.
• Check for injuries and seek first aid. Once the shaking stops, gather everyone together in a safe spot (if possible) and assess if anyone needs medical attention. Only contact emergency services for major or life threatening injuries. Administering first aid where you can will reserve medical and rescue resources for those who really need them.
• Listen to the local radio stations for emergency advice. Local authorities will broadcast important information, including shelter locations or where/how to seek medical help. They will also have advice on which travel routes are safe during an evacuation.
• Only use phones for short essential calls. Phone systems, especially mobile, are often overwhelmed with calls during emergencies. Limiting your phone use will free up lines for more critical calls. If wi-fi can be connected, use this to contact family members through social media or messaging apps instead of calling.
• Keep pets under control. Earthquakes are scary for people, but will also rattle your pets as well. The best option is to crate dogs and cats after a quake to prevent them from running away or hiding in a potentially unsafe place. In the event of an evacuation, remember to bring their food, any medications, a blanket, and a few toys for them. 

Earthquakes, like many emergencies, can strike without warning. Following the above advice can help your family stay safe.

How does your family practice earthquake safety? Share your tips with our Facebook community.

About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.

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