Survival: how to be prepared for natural disasters?

Earthquake

Before the earthquake : Fasten your bookshelves and devices securely to walls. Store chinaware and place heavy objects on lower shelves. Secure objects that can fall during the shaking with tape or bubble paper

During the earthquake : During an earthquake, stay low on the ground. Take cover beneath a table or a sturdy desk. Grab something firmly.

After the earthquake : If there has been damage to your house, turn off gas and power to avoid a fire. Walk slowly and cautiously to avoid debris and take your insurance documentation with you.

Fire

Before the fire event : Prevention is crucial. Do you exercise caution with candles, matches and electrical appliances ? Do you check your smoke detectors on a regular basis ? In wooden areas, create a fire-resistant zone around your house (density of surrounding woods, clean roof and gutters, cut tree limbs up to two meters, stack your firewood away from your house, mow and water your lawn)

During the fire event : If your smoke detector starts beeping, bend down, keep away from smoke and leave your home right away. Call 18. Do not stay inside your house to fight the fire or save some objects.

After the fire event : Treat any injuries or smoke inhalation and do insurance paperwork.

Flood

Before the flood : During heavy rains, any area can become flooded, even plains. Build accordingly and plan for an easy access to sand bags to keep water at window and basement door levels.

During the flood : Follow evacuation instructions and do not cross flooded areas. Go upstairs to the highest level of your house or building.

After the flood : Watch out for debris in floodwaters. Check for mold signs in water damaged areas inside your house + insurance documentation.

Storms

Before the storm : Lock all windows and doors. Secure outdoor furniture and any potential projectile by moving them inside. Have hand-operated battery and radio on hand.

During the storm : Follow all evacuation plans. Keep inside and away from windows. Tune in for local information by listening to emergency radio stations.

After the storm : If your home has damage, turn off your gas and electricity to avoid a fire. Walk slowly and cautiously to avoid debris and take insurance documentation with you.