Earthquake Preparedness Project

Introduction:

As you know Whidbey Island is in the middle of a very geologically active area. We need to be concerned about major earthquakes in our area. This activity is designed to help you and your family get ready for an earthquake. Identify your paper with only your student number and period.

Assignment:

On a sheet of graph paper, draw a floor plan of your house or apartment. If your house is more than one story use a sheet of graph paper for each floor. Sketch the outlines of the rooms first VERY LIGHTLY with a pencil. When they are right, use a ruler to darken them. Clearly label each room.

Think about where in your house there are tables, bookshelves, windows, mirrors, etc. Remember that objects in your house could either help you or hurt you during an earthquake. Use what you know about your house and the Red Cross / FEMA guide to make a good earthquake plan. Also use the following checklist for marking your map as you go:

• SAFE LOCATIONS - Identify at least one safe place (under a sturdy table or desk) in each room of your house. Mark each of these locations on your map with the word SAFE.
• MUST SECURE - Identify any heavy shelves, bookcases and water heaters that need to be securely fastened to the floors or walls. Mark each with a SECURE and a label. Point out these objects to your parents/guardians.
• FIRE EXTINGUISHERS - Mark the location of each with a F.EXT. If you don't have a fire extinguisher, write in bold letters on your floor plan "PURCHASE FIRE EXTINGUISHER."
• FLASHLIGHT - Show where you keep (or could keep) a battery-powered flashlight and extra batteries. Mark the location with the word FLASH.
• WATER - Show where you keep (or could keep) water for each person in the house. Mark the location with the word "WATER". Remember you will need 3 gallons per person per day !
• FOOD - Show where you keep (or could keep) canned food, a can opener, first-aid kit and extra medications. Mark the location with the words FOOD or MEDS.
• WARM STUFF - Show where you keep (or could keep) protective / warm clothing and blankets or sleeping bags. Mark the location with the word WARMS.
• ELECTRIC, GAS, and WATER CONTROLS - Identify the location of the electric power panel, gas, and water shut-off valves. You might want to ask your parents to show you how to turn them off. Mark EACH location with the word OFF and then write the NAME of the control next to it.
• CONTACT - Choose an out-of-the area family friend or relative to be a contact after the earthquake. You will call this person so that he / she can notify and update distant friends and family of your condition.           Name: __________________ Phone #:________________

A few other important steps to help you develop a complete plan:

1. It is best to have a small earthquake kit (water, food and warm clothes) in the back of each car.
2. Have plan for reuniting family members in case you are not together at the time of the EQ.