How to prepare your home and family for an earthquake

If an earthquake were to occur in British Columbia, the average citizen is probably not prepared, says ReneBernstein, marketing director forSt.John Ambulance, BC & Yukon.

In a recent survey of over 3,000 people who had takenfirst aid courses with the organization, 40percent said theydid not have aemergency plan or kit."These are people who should be more aware than average," says Bernstein.

She saysthe recent earthquake in Nepal is likely to greater sense of urgencyduring National Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3rd to9th).

Bernstein shared these tips for preparing your home and family for a natural disaster.

1. Have an emergency kit ready to "grab and go."

Make sure you have anemergency kitnear the door you're most likely to exit, and keep it free from clutter.

The kit should includefood, water, first aid supplies, medication, communication devices, contact lists, comfort items for children, cash and other items. St. John Ambulance has a checklist to help you put together a kit, which should serve each member of your family for at least 72 hours.

Bernstein also recommends keeping a kitin yourcarand atwork.

2. Secure your heavy furniture.

Bookcases, appliances, pianos, dressersand beds can all become dislodged andcause injury. Theseshouldbe fixed to the wall.

3. Put breakableand heavy objectsdown low.

Don't load your top shelves with items that can shatter and cause injury.

"Most people get hurt with flying or fallingdebris," cautions Bernstein.

She says the kitchen is often the most dangerous room in the house during an earthquake, thanks to heavy appliances, breakable items, and sharp objects.

4. Reduce the risk from glass.

Windows, mirrors and picture frames can shatter during an earthquake. Reduce your risk by securing pictures and mirrors to walls, andkeeping beds and tables away from windows.

If that's not possible, consider heavy drapes in high-risk areas, or a special film for glass.

5. Turn off your gas.

Know where gas outlets are and how to turn them off.

6. Prepare your children.

Parents' instinct will be to run to childrenas soon as disaster strikes. However, if you are in separate rooms,it may besafer for each family member totake immediate shelter (for example, under a sturdy table).

Make sure your children are aware of safe zones and how long to stay put (at least60 seconds after shaking has stopped). Bernstein suggests teaching younger children a song to sing during the shakingso you know they are safe.

7. Have a disaster plan.

Bernstein says having a family plan is crucial. Know how to evacuate, where tomeet and who to call. Make sure each member of the family is prepared for a number of scenarios.

To hear more of Rene Bernstein's advice, listen to the audio labelled: How to prepare your home for an earthquake.