By learning the potential hazards of earthquakes and by taking certain preparedness measures NOW, you can survive an earthquake and minimize its dangerous and damaging impact. Follow the directions for preparing your three-day survival pack. Store this brochure with your survival pack for later reference. The actual movement of the ground in an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most casualties result from falling objects and debris because the shocks can shake, damage, or demolish buildings, bridges, and other man-made structures.
Earthquakes can also trigger landslides and generate huge ocean waves called tsunamis.
Both of these can cause great damage and loss of life. Overturned bookcases, fixtures, and other furniture and appliances. The danger may be aggravated by the lack of water due to broken water mains. Fallen Power lines. Bolt down or provide other strong support for water heaters and other gas appliances, since fire damage can result from broken gas lines and appliance connections.