Remove Household Hazards

• Store large, heavy objects lower to the ground to reduce the risk of object falling on you during an earthquake. Check to make sure your shelves are securely fastened to the walls. Lock cabinets that hold flammable products. Move large, heavy objects that hang on walls to a place where they will not fall on people during an earthquake. Beds and couches should not have items hung above them. Always repair electrical wiring and gas leaks immediately so that when an earthquake does hit, it does not make the situation worse.
  
  

Identify Safe Places

• It is important to have a safe place to go in an emergency. During an earthquake you should locate somewhere that has a sturdy wall to protect you from falling objects. Heavy desks and tables are a great place to wait out an earthquake. Make sure you are nowhere near glass and other items that can shatter.
  
  

Get Educated

• Contact your local California emergency management office to find out about emergency preparedness training classes in your area. The California emergency management office provides free "How-To Series" for emergency preparedness on their website. Always teach your children how to place an emergency call. Keep emergency numbers near the house phone and store them into cell phones.
  
  

Emergency Supplies

• Always have emergency supplies available. Keep an emergency kit in your home and car in case you are not able to access one of them. Items such as flashlights, batteries, radios, first aid, nonperishable food and bottled water, cash, medicine, handheld can openers and clean clothes are excellent supplies to keep in your emergency kits. Always keep plenty of fuel in your car so that you are not stuck with out mobility.
  
  

Pets During Emergencies

• Never allow your pet to roam free during an emergency. Take your pet with you if you must evacuate. If you are unable to take the pet, place a Rescue Alert Sticker on the front door with the number and types of pets you have. Make an emergency kit for your pet. The kit should include any necessary pet medication, one week's worth of food, plastic bags and paper towels.