In light of the recent events in Mexico, we should take a long, hard look at our earthquake preparations and plans… especially since we’re on the San Andreas AND Hayward Faults. (excerpt from a Wagan Internal Memo)
Don’t believe that it can’t happen to you… it can. If you are the head of your household, you should provide a plan and kit for all of the people under your care.
Check structure in and out and look for weaknesses such as cracks, broken posts, sagging foundation, or pre-existing damage. If you are unsure, have a professional inspect it. Don’t forget to secure loose, heavy, or unstable fixtures such as: furniture, shelving, water heaters, TVs, Wall pictures, etc.
Everyone will have different needs, but the basics are food, water, medicine(s) (both prescription and basics like aspirin), first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, small portable radio, fire extinguisher, matches/lighters, knife, rope/cord, tools (like a wrench, pliers, gas shut-off), tape, toilet paper, hygiene supplies, cash, and other essentials. You must take small children and the elderly’s needs into consideration if you have them in your care. Kits should be assembled to survive for at least 3 days on your own.
Construct a “get-home” bag in the event you are stuck in your car or forced to travel by foot. In the very least, your backpack should have:
- • Energy Bars (long-shelf life)
- • Water
- • Battery bank (for cellphone) + charging cables
- • Flashlight
- • Lighter
- • First Aid Kit
- • Jacket/Gloves/Socks
- • Medicine(s)/Prescriptions
- • Whistle
- • Knife
- • Walking shoes (if you wear heels/footwear that can’t be comfortably traveled in for any measurable distance)
All of the same items as the car list, just at your desk.
We have large desks, GET UNDER THEM! If you’re outside, get away from buildings and anything else that can fall (power lines, trees, streetlights, etc.). Warehouse staff should seek cover away from stacked pallets and other items that can fall.
DON’T PANIC, try to stay calm and level-headed
- 1) DROP under the nearest cover (table, desk, etc.)
- 2) COVER your body and protect your head
- 3) HOLD on to your cover. The violent shaking may make your cover overturn.
Meet at the designated location outside of the building, in the front parking lot IF IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!. Do a head-count to ensure everyone made it out safely. Be aware of aftershocks! Usually texting people is better than calling them as the phone lines will be overwhelmed.
DO NOT wait to make a plan or gather supplies. Earthquakes strike without warning; you do not want to be wishing you had a plan after an event occurs.
DO NOT rely on others to help you, HELP YOURSELF, RIGHT NOW!
PREPARE and PLAN NOW!
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