American Red Cross Disaster Preparedness for the Silicon Valley Community

American Red Cross Silicon Valley Chapter

2731 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95134400 Mitchell Lane, Palo Alto, CA 943017666 Crest Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037

(877) 727-6771www.siliconvalley-redcross.org

Common Bay Area Disasters

3 Steps to Being Prepared

#1: Get a Kit A disaster supplies kit should include:

Water Food and a manual can opener Flashlights and batteries First aid kit Battery-powered radio Tools Duct tape and plastic sheeting

#1: Get a Kit (cont.)A disaster supplies kit should also include:

Clothing and bedding Prescription medication Pet supplies Cash and coins Sanitary supplies Important papers Contact information and a map

Buy online at www.siliconvalley-redcross.org #1: Get a Kit

#2: Make a PlanTalkLearnTellPractice

Whats in the Plan?An escape and meeting planA communication planA utility shutdown plan

Escape & Meeting Plan2 ways out of every room2 ways out of the house2 Meeting places

A Communications PlanWho to Call?Ideally an out of-of-town contact Learn to text

Remember to keep the message short, others will be trying to make contact!

https://disastersafe.redcross.org

A Utilities Shut off PlanWater ShutoffElectric ShutoffGas Shutoff

The following radio stations broadcast emergency information and instructions from authorities during emergencies: KCBS - AM 740 KGO - AM 810 KQED - FM 88.5 KLIV AM 1590KSOL - FM 98.9 (Spanish) KSJX - 1500 AM (Vietnamese) * AlertSCC for Emergency Warnings#3: Be Informed

#3: Be Informed (cont.)

The 3 Cs

Check-Call-CareAlways use the Emergency Action Steps:Check the scene for safety, then check the victim;Call 9-1-1, or your local emergency number to get advanced medical help; and Give care to the injured person.

What is the most common disaster the Red Cross responds to?House Fires!

Fire SafetyHome fire is the most common disaster in the U.S.

Fires cause the most disaster related deaths.

Asphyxiation is primary cause of death, 3 times that of burns

Fire PreventionKeep anything flammable at least 3 feet away from hot items.Dont leave candles unattended.Avoid smoking in bed.Keep matches and lighters secured and away from children.Maintain home heating sources.Conduct a home hazard hunt.

Draw a floor plan of home and identify 2 escape routes out of every room.Install escape ladders for sleeping areas on second floor or above. Install quick release devices for inside of burglar/security bars.Select a safe outside meeting place.Conduct a home fire drill twice a year.

Fire Prevention (cont.)

Smoke DetectorsAt least one on each level of your home.Check the smoke detectors every six months!Place inside & outside bedroomsChange batteries yearly or when alarm chirpsReplace every 10 years

What is the most effective defense against a house fire?

In Case of Fire, Take ActionGet out. Go to your meeting place.If escaping through closed door, feel door, before opening.Close doors behind you as you escape to delay spread of the fire.Once outside make the 911 call.

Fire Safety Have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and the garage of your home. Learn how to properly use an extinguisher in the event of a small fire.

Earthquakes

Fortunate Factors from Loma Prieta

Recent Earthquakes

ABAG Maps

ABAG Shake Map

ABAG Liquefaction Map

Earthquake HazardsFiresDebrisPower OutagesLandslidesFlash FloodsTsunamis

Earthquake SafetyIf you are indoors:DROP, COVER & HOLD.

Under a sturdy table or object Doorway? Seniors Sit Down!!!

* Most earthquake-related injuries are from flying glass & falling objects, not collapses.

Outside:- Drop & Cover!- Open space is best- Away from buildings, trees, telephone lines, etc* If driving, pull over in an OPEN space & stay in the car

What if Im driving on a bridge?Earthquake Safety

After the Initial Shock WaveBe prepared for aftershocks within first hours, days, weeks and months after quakeListen to local radio for latest emergency informationStay out of damaged buildings and return only if authorities say it is safe.Leave area if you smell gas or fumes.Open closet and cupboard doors cautiously.

Bolt down water heaters & large furniture to wall studs.Secure other large/mobile items (TVs, light fixtures, computer equipment).Install latches on cabinets.Make a Plan

FloodsIn the United States, about 90% of damage related to natural disasters is caused by floods and associated debris flows.

Floods: Make a Plan

Learn about your areas flood risk and elevation above flood stage. If you are at risk for floods:

Talk to your insurance agent. Discuss a meeting place if need to evacuate Discuss your plan.

Take ActionListen to radio for current information and follow advice.Stay out of flood-prone areas.If you are outdoors, move away from flood waters, climb to higher ground and stay there.If driving and encounter flood waters, turn around and go another way. DO NOT drive through flood waters.

AfterwardsWhen it is safe to return home:

Use caution; search for fire hazards.Take pictures of the damage.Discard food that came in contact with flood waters.Follow advice of public health officials about how to treat water.

Pandemic FluWhat is the difference between Seasonal and Pandemic Flu??

Ways to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

Flu ProtectionWash your hands !Cover your mouth/nose when you cough or sneezeDont go to work if you are sick!Get a flu shot!Apply alcohol-based hand sanitizer

Start today . . . Do the easy stuff first! Put a pair of shoes and flashlight by your bed Start your Communications PlanCheck around the home Hazard HuntCheck your smoke detectorStart to build your kitHave a Family meeting Learn First Aid/CPRTest your plans

Volunteer: Visit www.siliconvalley-redcross.org or call (877) 727-6771 for more information regarding volunteer opportunities at a Red Cross chapter near you! Give Blood: Go to www.beadonor.com or call (800) 448- 3543 for eligibility requirements and information regarding giving blood in the Bay Area. Donate: Visit www.siliconvalley-redcross.org or call (877) 727-6771 to learn how to donate.Get Involved

Questions?

*Good morning/afternoon/evening. Thank you for inviting me. [Audience acknowledgments] Thank you for allowing the Silicon Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross to help you, your family, and your fellow employees to be prepared in the event of a disaster.

What were you taught in school to repeat and execute for a fire? Stop, Drop and Roll.

Who knows what to do in an earthquake? Drop, Cover and Hold On.

I am here to help all of you be prepared for a disaster.**Fire: San Bruno 2010Earthquake: Mission District 1989Flood: Highway 280 & 87 2000H1N1 flu scare of 2009

The Loma Prieta earthquake struck on October 17, 1989 at 5:04 p.m. It was a 7.1 earthquake. Because of the World Series game against the As and the Giants, it was the first major earthquake in the United States ever to be broadcast by live television. Lucky things that occurred: No wind, and most people were at the game. It was the longest delay in World Series history. $70 Billion in damage to Santa Clara county. & $235 Billion to the Bay Area.

On September 9, 2010, a PG&E high pressure gas main exploded inSan Bruno. 58 homes were involved and 6 deaths resulted fromThe explosion and ensuing fire.Fast Facts (As of Sept. 27, 2010)Affected Families Currently Being Assisted by the Red Cross = 383Health Services Consultations = 739Disaster Mental Health Consultations = 986Meals & Snacks Served = 9,521Cleaning Supplies Distributed = 803Total Volunteers and Employees Working on the Operation = 171*Be Red Cross Ready emphasizes three actions every individual and family can take to be better prepared for whatever may come:

Get a KitMake a PlanBe Informed.

*Water: Recommended to have a gallon per day, per person for at least three to five days.When shopping for water, look for US coast guard approved. These have a shelf life of 5 years. Milky Plastic: 6 months (polyurethane) & Clear Plastic: 1 year

Dont drink from a toilet bowl or a swimming pool.

Worst case scenario, drink from the back of the toilet bowl (make sure no chemicals) or the water heater, most come with nozzles.

To purify: 1 drop of bleach per quart of water8 drops of bleach per gallon of water (1 gallon equals 128 ounces) teaspoon of bleach per 5 gallons of water1 teaspoon of bleach per 10 gallons of water

The ones that come in our kit taste like vanilla wafers - 3600 calorie bar. There are also MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) -- add water or spit to activate heating device. Pack things that you actually like to eat and are used to eating.

Have flashlights and extra batteries ready for use. Keep flashlights in your kit, and also keep a flashlight by your bedside. Power can be out for as little as a few hours to several days.

Flashlights are the safest alternative lighting when the electricity is off.

Crank flashlights preferred (can double as phone charger and radio). Do not put matches in your kit as your sole source of light. Lighting a match could ignite unknown gas.

Duct tape and plastic sheeting are needed to temporarily seal off a room (shelter-in-place).

If local officials advise you to shelter-in-place, they mean for you to remain in your home or office and protect yourself there.

Duct tape and plastic sheeting can be used to seal off vents, etc., to keep out hazardous materials and can also be a shelter from rain.

It is best to shelter-in-place in an interior room, or a room with few windows that is above ground level.

*Including sturdy shoes in your kit to wear after an earthquake can help protect your feet from broken glass and other debris. Also keep a pair of shoes near your bedside so they will be handy in case an earthquake happens while you are in bed.

Contact Information. Keep a current list of phone numbers for everyone in your household and for others you may need to contact, such as doctors. Make copies and file them at work, school and other relevant places.

Include the name and phone number of someone who lives out of the area who can serve as a relay for information. It may be easier to contact someone outside the area affected by a disaster.

Include cell phone numbers and e-mail addresses. It may be less difficult to communicate by e-mail right after an emergency than by phone.

On the phone use text to your family members if you can. This is more likely go through (it keeps trying till it clears).

If a family member is serving in the armed forces (active duty, reserve or national guard) be sure to have their social security number, military address where s/he is assigned, and/or home base unit in case you need to contact them. When provided with this information, the Red Cross will be able to help you contact your family members more quickly.

Pack a map, regardless of how well you know the area, it is a good idea to have one handy in case primary roads are blocked and you need an alternate route.

Note on pets: bring to shelters, proved to be a problem during Katrina. Shelters now have partnerships with vets & animal shelters. Bring leash and food.

Cash and Coins: you wont be able to get petty cash out of the machines. No greater than 100 dollar bill.

Fema (Federal Emergency Management Agency) helps people with insurance first.

*Check all supplies every six months. A good time is when you set the clocks forward or backwards.

**Talk with your family about disasters that can happen where you live.

Learn:To turn off utilities. To use a fire extinguisher.To call for emergency help.What the emergency plans for your workplace, school and other places you and your family frequentAlternate routes of transportation and communication

Tell: everyone in the household:

Where the emergency supplies kit is storedWhere the emergency contact information is keptThe details of your disaster planTo always carry a copy of the emergency contact information (See emergency contact card at www.redcross.org or on Be Red Cross Ready brochure.)

Practice your plan.

The importance of practicing what to do cannot be emphasized enough. During emergencies such as fires, floods and tornadoes, there are only seconds to act. Practicing provides the experience of what it feels like so that when an emergency happens, people are more likely to respond correctly.

*Planning is escape/meeting and a communications plan. When a disaster or other emergency happens, those who have planned in advance are calmer and more assured. A plan for what to do in an emergency applies to everyone, including those who live alone. Everyone should know what to do, where to go, and who to contact in case an emergency happens.

Choose an out-of-town contact for members of the family to call in case of disaster. The selected contact person should live far enough away that they would be unaffected by the same event and they should know they are the chosen contact. Can you recall a time when phone lines were overloaded or down? How did you communicate? (Discuss a local incident that effected telephone service.) Learn how to text. Texting can use less bandwidth. (Wireless assn) But, there are some limitations, no way to confirm that a message went through. Messages may be delayed for deliveryNot only is it important to check with your contact when you are affected by a disaster, it is also important that a member of the family let the contact know that you are safe if the event is nearby but you are unaffected.have two ways out of every room and two meeting places outside of the building (near and a few blocks away). example San Bruno

* 2 routes of escape from every room 2 routes of escape from the house or apartment 2 Meeting places 1 near to the home 1 a distance in case you have to evacuate the neighborhood

Be precise on where you will meet

*Develop a communication plan.

Choose an out-of-town contact for members of the family to call in case of disaster. The selected contact person should live far enough away that they would be unaffected by the same event and they should know they are the chosen contact. Can you recall a time when phone lines were overloaded or down? How did you communicate? (Discuss a local incident that effected telephone service.) Learn how to text. Texting can use less bandwidth. (Wireless assn) But, there are some limitations, no way to confirm that a message went through. Messages may be delayed for deliveryNot only is it important to check with your contact when you are affected by a disaster, it is also important that a member of the family let the contact know that you are safe if the event is nearby but you are unaffected.

*Develop a communication plan.

Choose an out-of-town contact for members of the family to call in case of disaster. The selected contact person should live far enough away that they would be unaffected by the same event and they should know they are the chosen contact. Can you recall a time when phone lines were overloaded or down? How did you communicate? (Discuss a local incident that effected telephone service.) Learn how to text. Texting can use less bandwidth. (Wireless assn) But, there are some limitations, no way to confirm that a message went through. Messages may be delayed for deliveryNot only is it important to check with your contact when you are affected by a disaster, it is also important that a member of the family let the contact know that you are safe if the event is nearby but you are unaffected.

*Know how to shut off the 3 main utilities

Electricity Recommended to shut off small switches firstWaterGas - To turn this on contact the service provider****-On average, 1.3 million fires occur every year (includes structure [nearly 40%],outside [nearly 50%], vehicle [over 10%])-Nearly 3000 Americans die in fires every year, on average more than all other natural disasters combined. -Over 17, 000 Civilian Fire injuries-Over $12.5 Billion dollars property damage

30% of smoke detectors do not function.

Fire generates a thick, black smoke that makes it difficult, if not impossible to see, causing disorientation. It is important everyone in the home know two ways out of every room.

The smoke and heat of a fire can be detected by a smoke alarm, alerting family members to evacuate the home quickly. According to the NFPA, in 2004, 74% of home fire deaths resulted in homes with no smoke alarms or homes with smoke alarms that werent working.

The fire service community and the Red Cross recommend installing smoke alarms on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms. Because closing doors of sleeping areas can delay the activation of a smoke alarm, it is a good idea to have smoke alarms inter-connected; this will cause all of the alarms in the home to sound when only one smoke alarm is activated. The National Fire Alarm code (NFPA 72) now requires hardwired smoke alarms in new homes (new residential construction). Smoke Alarm Maintenance Once a month, test your smoke alarm using the test button and vacuum dust and cobwebs from it. Replace the batteries in your smoke alarm once a year. Smoke alarms need to be replaced once every ten years because they lose sensitivity over time.**Follow these Fire Prevention tips in the home:

Keep fuel and heat 3 feet apart. Keep all combustible materials away from heat sources. This means blankets, wet mittens, clothing and curtains should be at least three feet away from portable heaters; towels, clothing, curtains, bags and newspapers should be kept away from stoves and other appliances. Ensure that candles are extinguished when an adult is not in the room. Dont leave burning candles unattended.Avoid smoking in bed; when drowsy; or when medicated. Bed linens are highly combustible. Drowsy or medicated people may forget lit materials, resulting in fire.Keep matches and lighters up high, away from children, preferably in a locked cabinet. Children are curious about fire and may play with matches and lighters if they are not kept out of reach. Make sure your home heating source is clean and in working order. Many home fires are started by poorly maintained furnaces or stoves, cracked or rusted furnace parts, or chimneys with creosote buildup. Have chimneys and wood stoves inspected annually and cleaned when necessary.When cooking, make sure that you are wearing short or constrained sleeves. Loose sleeves can catch fire quickly. Also never leave the kitchen when frying, grilling or boiling and never leave home while simmering, baking or roasting food.Conduct a home hazard hunt. Many things around the home can be fire hazards. Taking the time to look for and eliminate hazards will greatly reduce your risk of a home fire. *In addition to the steps you would normally take in your family disaster plan, there are special considerations for fire. Lets look at how you can prepare for a fire by making a plan and taking action.

If working smoke alarms are not already in place, install them in the recommended areas: on each level of the home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.Draw a floor plan of your home and identify two escape routes out of every room. Creating a floor plan with two routes out of every room greatly helps everyone understand the safest routes during a fire emergency.Consider installing escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second floor, and quick release devices for the inside of burglar/security bars. Select a safe outside meeting place once everyone has evacuated your home in the event of a fire. Make sure it would be a safe distance from heat, smoke and flames. Since family members may exit the home in different places, it is important that one gathering place be identified so that you can know who is out and who may need help from firefighters and their probable location inside.

Conduct a home fire drill twice a year. Practicing your plan makes the actual response more of an appropriate reaction, requiring less thinking during an emergency. During your home fire drill:

Practice alerting other family members by yelling Fire! during your escape. During a real fire this will help alert family members to get out. Practice crawling low on the floor, as if you were crawling under a layer of smoke. During a fire, a room will fill with smoke from the ceiling to the floor, meaning that the cleanest air will be near the floor. However, some toxic gases are very heavy, and sink to the floor. So the zone that has least risk is from 6 to 18 from the floor. Close doors behind you to delay the spreading of the fire.Practice your evacuation plan with your eyes closed or blind-folded. The amount of smoke during a real fire will likely make it impossible to see.Teach family members to get out first and then call for help. It is important to meet at the outside safe meeting place before going to a neighbors home to call for help, so others know you escaped. Practice your home evacuation plan during the day and at night. Fires can happen at any time and practicing your routes at night will help you move more quickly should a fire happen when its dark.

*The smoke and heat of a fire can be detected by a smoke alarm, alerting family members to evacuate the home quickly. According to the NFPA, in 2004, 74% of home fire deaths resulted in homes with no smoke alarms or homes with smoke alarms that werent working.

The fire service community and the Red Cross recommend installing smoke alarms on every level of the home, outside sleeping areas, and inside bedrooms. Because closing doors of sleeping areas can delay the activation of a smoke alarm, it is a good idea to have smoke alarms inter-connected; this will cause all of the alarms in the home to sound when only one smoke alarm is activated. The National Fire Alarm code (NFPA 72) now requires hardwired smoke alarms in new homes (new residential construction). Smoke Alarm Maintenance Once a month, test your smoke alarm using the test button and vacuum dust and cobwebs from it. Replace the batteries in your smoke alarm once a year. Smoke alarms need to be replaced once every ten years because they lose sensitivity over time.*Here is what you should do if a fire happens in your home:

Get out. Leave your home as quickly and safely as possible. The less time you are exposed to toxic air, the safer you will be.If a stove fire starts, put a lid on the burning pan and turn off the burner. Leave the lid in place until the pan is completely cool. Using a lid to contain and smother a fire is your safest action. Using water may cause grease to spread and increase the size of the fire. If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door, cracks and doorknob with the back of your hand before opening the door. If its cool and there is no smoke, open the door slowly. If you see smoke or fire beyond the door, close it and use your second escape route.If you see any smoke or fire in your first escape route, use your second way out.Close doors behind you as you escape to delay the spread of the fire.

If smoke heat or flames block your exit routes and you cannot get outside safely:Stay in the room with the door closed.Open the window for ventilation.Hang a sheet outside so firefighters can find you.If there is a phone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are.

Once you are out, stay out!Firefighters are trained and equipped to enter burning buildings. If someone is still inside, direct them to that persons probable location.Go to your meeting place.Use a cell phone, or send someone to call the fire department from a neighbors home or from an outside phone.

*Using a fire extinguisher:

Use a fire extinguisher only if you have been trained by the fire department and under certain conditions.The conditions are: The fire is confided to a small area and not growing, the room is not filled with smoke, everyone has exited the building and the fire department has been called.Rule of Thumb: If fire less than the size of a trashcan, you can try and fight it. After it gets bigger than that -- abandon it.Remember the word PASS when using a fire extinguisher.P: Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher with the nozzle away from you.A: Aim low, point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.S: Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.S: Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

*An earthquake is the result of a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust that creates seismic waves.

An earthquakes strength is measured in magnitude and intensity.

Seismographs are often used to detect, record and measure the magnitude of earthquakes.

The Richter scale is a common form of measurement used to describe an earthquakes strength.

A moderate earthquake is considered between Magnitude 4 and 5, large-Magnitude 6, major-Magnitude 7 and great-Magnitude 8.

*The 1989 World Series was played between the Oakland Athletics and the San Francisco Giants. The Series ran from October 14 through October 28, 1989, with the A's sweeping the Giants in four games. It was the first World Series sweep since 1976, and is best remembered for the Loma Prieta earthquake, which occurred on October 17 at the beginning of Game 3 and caused a ten day disruption in play.

The Loma Prieta earthquake struck on October 17, 1989 at 5:04 p.m. It was a 7.1 earthquake. Game 3 was scheduled to start at 5:15 p.m., at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, and thousands of people were already in the stadium when the quake occurred. Because of the coincidence of timing, it was the first major earthquake in the United States ever to be broadcast by live television.

Experts credit the timing of the World Series as a lucky break that prevented massive loss of life and a possible firestorm in the city. Among other fortuitous coincidences:

Due to the game, many people had left work early or were staying late to participate in after-work group viewings and parties. As a consequence, traffic was lighter than usual on the freeways that collapsed in the earthquake. Initial expectations were that hundreds of people had died in the collapse of Interstate 880 in Oakland; the final death toll from that event was 42.

A blimp that had been covering the game was used to coordinate emergency efforts.

Volunteers helped connect hoses from San Francisco's fireboat, the Phoenix, to fight fires with pumped salt water from the nearby bay.

Out of respect for the earthquake victims, the Oakland Athletics weren't allowed to celebrate their World Series victory with champagne.

*USGS publishes information on fault lines, shake maps. Maps show, if you live in the Bay Area, you are going to have earthquakes!

How many of you remember the Loma Prieta Earthquake? Where were you, what were you doing?

The fault the furthest away is the San Andres Fault & the one that runs right through San Jose is the Haywood Fault.

if Hayward or Calvarus faults snapped, they could cut off power and water to Santa Clara County.

The website is: http://quake.usgs.gov/recenteqs/Maps/San_Francisco.htm

This location can show you the susceptibility of your location to earthquake shake and liquefaction.

In addition it has maps on flooding, landslides, HAZMAT Incidents and potential Dam inundation.

You can get to the site via a search for ABAG.*This location can show you the susceptibility of your location to earthquake shake and liquefaction.

In addition it has maps on flooding, landslides, HAZMAT Incidents and potential Dam inundation.

You can get to the site via a search for ABAG.*This location can show you the susceptibility of your location to earthquake shake and liquefaction.

In addition it has maps on flooding, landslides, HAZMAT Incidents and potential Dam inundation.

You can get to the site via a search for ABAG.**The effects of an earthquake can bring about several hazards. They include:

Fires - Look for and properly extinguish small fires; putting out small fires quickly using available resources will prevent them from spreading. Fire is the most common hazard following an earthquake. Flash Floods - Flash floods can occur with little or no warning, reaching full peak in only a few minutes. While they are usually caused by heavy and excessive rainfall during a brief amount of time, they can also be caused by earthquake damage to dams and levees or any sudden release of water from damaged utility pipes.Landslides- Land slides are downhill earth movements and much like flash floods, can occur with little to no warning. Landslides generally occur in areas that they have happened before and earthquakes can cause them to occur by shaking loose rocks and other debris on slopes.Tsunamis (Pronounced soo-nah-mee) A Japanese word meaning harbor wave, a tsunami is a large ocean wave caused by an earthquake or other large-scale disturbance of the ocean floor. Some people mistakenly call tsunamis tidal waves If you are in a coastal-tsunami prone area, move to higher ground.(Note: there is only a relatively small chance of Tusnami in Santa Clara County)Power Outages - Earthquakes often leave large numbers of people without electric power for hours or even days. In an emergency, people should use flashlights and other battery-powered light sources, not candles. The use of candles for emergency lighting can lead to a deadly fire, especially if candles tip over during an aftershock. Debris - Most earthquake related injuries result from flying glass, falling objects, and moving people not ground movement. Liquefaction (soil goes from a solid state to having the consistency of a heavy liquid as a result of pressure) resulted in heavy damage in beach front areas in S.F. Soil liquefaction describes the behavior of soils that, when loaded, suddenly suffer a transition from a solid state to a liquefied state, or having the consistency of a heavy liquid. Liquefaction[1] is more likely to occur in loose to moderate saturated granular soils with poor drainage, such as silty sands or sands and gravels capped or containing seams of impermeable sediments. Marina District, in San Francisco is on landfill that they put concrete over. Million dollar homes.

*Drop, cover, and hold was designed to prevent the most common earthquake injuries in the developed world: falling objects, not collapsing buildings.

Buildings rarely collapse, even a pop up table helps.

Dont stand in doorway; the door could slam into you.

Interior Wall: no windows or large objects.

If you are going to stand in a doorway, put your butt against door frame and your hands in front of you.

should include what if you are in bed or there is no table. Should mention don't run out of the house since this was the cause of most injuries in earthquakes. (do to tripping and falling items)

The Triangle of Life is a controversial theory advocated by Doug Copp about how to survive a major earthquake. It is intended to replace the traditional "drop, cover, and hold on" tactic. Copp recommends that, at the onset of a major earthquake, building occupants should seek shelter near solid items that will provide a protective space, a void or space that could prevent injury or permit survival in the event of a major structural failure -- a "pancake collapse". Such failures are rare in western communities where opponents argue the drop, cover and hold on tactic will prevent the vast majority of gravity-induced injuries that occur more frequently.

If you are in a vehicle:Pull over to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. Then drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps -- which may have been damaged by the shaking.

Bridge: Slow down gradually, continue driving Bay Bridge shifted 7 inches during the quake, caused collapse of upper deck. A few upper deck motorists actually drove into the hole and landed safely. Fatality caused when miscommunication sent east bound traffic on Yerba Buena Island on to the upper deck towards Oakland. One driver did not see the gap

If a power line falls on your vehicle, do not get out. Wait for assistance.

********************Background Information:If time allows, practice an earthquake drill.

*Following an earthquake

Be prepared for aftershocks within the first hours, days, weeks and even months after the quake. Although smaller than the main shock, aftershocks can cause additional damage, and may collapse already weakened structures.

Family members should help injured or trapped persons, giving first aid when appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help, but do NOT use the telephone after an earthquake unless reporting a life-threatening condition. The phone lines need to remain available for true emergency calls.

Stay tuned to local radio for the latest emergency information.

Avoid loose or dangling power lines; report them to the power company or fire department.

Stay out of damaged buildings and return home only if authorities say it is safe; if the power is out, do not use candles.

Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.

Open closet and cupboard doors cautiously. Items may have shifted during the quake and can fall on you.

Volunteer Your local Red Cross offers assistance to those impacted by the disaster - your neighbors, friends and family. We also help communities take steps to lesson the impact of future disasters. You can take part in serving your community by contacting your Red Cross BEFORE a disaster to get training in disaster relief or to volunteer your time, talent and resources in other ways.

*******************Background Information:Use this opportunity to discuss the importance of first aid, CPR and AED training. Present a schedule of classes and invite participants to enroll.

*Pre 1950 check

Go down into the crawl space the area between the first floor and the foundation to find out if your house is bolted to its foundation.

Look for the heads of anchor bolts that fasten the sill plate the wooden board that sits directly on top of the foundation securely to the foundation.

You should be able to see the large nuts, washers, and anchor bolts, installed at least every 4 to 6 feet along the sill plate. Steel plates are sometimes used instead of anchor bolts. You can get bolts at the local hardware store.

The Solution

Drill holes through the sill plate into the foundation and install anchor bolts.

If there is not enough room to drill, you can attach steel plates to hold the sill plate to the foundation.

Anchor bolts or steel plates. A home's crawl space may be formed by a cripple wall between the foundation and the floor joists or the floor joists may rest directly on the sill plate. In either case, you should be able to see the heads of anchor bolts or steel plates installed at appropriate intervals. These fixtures fasten the sill plate to the foundation.

Source: California Seismic Safety Commission

Anchor bolts have to be installed properly for them to be effective.

You must obtain the proper permits from your local Building Department before beginning work.

Since earthquakes can occur at anytime of the day or night with little or no warning, consider what you and family members would do if you were at home, at work, at school or outside.

Identify safe places in each room of your home where you can Drop, Cover and Hold On - under sturdy furniture such as a heavy desk or table, or sit against an inside wall, and away from where glass could shatter (windows, mirrors, pictures, shelving, and cabinets).

Locate safe places outdoors in the open, away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines, overpasses or elevated expressways.

Make sure you know how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water. Only turn off natural gas if you suspect a leak or if local officials advise you to do so. You will need gas for heating and cooking. Only a professional should restore natural gas service.

Because family members can be separated from one another during an earthquake, a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children at school, include your familys plan for reuniting after the earthquake. Make sure everyone knows and understands your familys emergency communication plan as well as the plan at each childs school.

*In the United States, about 90% of the damage related to natural disasters (excluding agricultural damage caused by droughts) is caused by floods and associated debris flows.

Most communities in the United States can experience some kind of flooding. From 1940 through 2001, the National Weather Service indicates that an average of 122 people died each year in the U.S. as a result of flooding, mostly flash floods.

First, we will discuss a few quick facts about floods that we should all know. Then, we will talk about specific measures we can all take to protect ourselves in the event of a flood.

*In addition to the steps you would normally take in your family disaster plan, there are special considerations for flooding. Lets learn how you can prepare for a flood by making a plan, building a kit and taking action.

Learn about your areas flood risk and elevation above flood stage.

If you are at risk for floods:Talk to your insurance agent. Homeowners policies do not cover flooding. Ask about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).Tell everyone in your family where they need to go if you need to evacuate your home in the event of a flood. Discuss your plan with your family to help reduce fear and anxiety in the event of a flood.

*Flood Safety

Here is what you should do to be safe from floods:

Stay out of areas subject to flooding, including dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. that can become filled with water.If you are outdoors, move away from flood waters, climb to higher ground and stay there. If you come upon a flowing stream with water above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Most flood fatalities happen when people try to drive through water, or play in high water. Swiftly moving water only 6 inches high can sweep you off your feet.If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route. Pay attention to barricades; driving around them can be a serious risk. Vehicles with large tires, such as trucks and SUVs, are more buoyant and are more likely to float in flood water. So, if you are driving and come upon flood waters, turn around and go another way. Do NOT drive through flood waters.If your vehicle becomes surrounded by water (or the engine stalls) and if you can safely get out, leave your vehicle immediately, move away from flood waters, and climb to higher ground. Use caution when leaving your vehicle.

Flood waters can cause dangerous hazards. During a flood watch or warning, you should be aware of these potential hazards:

Flood waters can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges and scour out new channels carrying debris. Flood-producing rains can also trigger catastrophic debris slides.Flood waters can reach depths of 10 to 20 feet and move very quickly. Even shallow flood waters move fast, producing more force than people anticipate. It is very dangerous to try walking, swimming or driving through flood waters. Just two feet of water can carry away most automobiles, including a school bus.

*When it is safe to return home:

Use extreme caution; wear sturdy shoes; use flashlights or battery-powered lighting when examining buildings; and inspect the structure carefully for signs of possible collapse cracks and damage to a foundation can render a building uninhabitable. Look for fire hazards; check for gas leaks; look for electrical system damage; check for sewage and waterline damage; and watch for loose plaster, drywall and ceilings that could fall. Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have entered with the flood waters. Use a stick to poke through debris for snakes or other animals flushed out of their homes during the flood.Take pictures of the damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance claims.Throw away food that has come in contact with flood waters.If the purity of your water is questionable, follow the advice of local public health officials about how to treat water, or follow the directions provided in the Water Treatment After Disaster Strikes flyer.Pump out flooded basements gradually to avoid structural damage. Pumping about one-third of the water per day will help to prevent the pressure from saturated soil on the outside from causing basement walls to collapse. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible to avoid health hazards.

*******************Background Information:

Water Treatment After Disaster Strikes is a flyer downloadable from www.redcross.org. Make copies of this flyer and hand it out following the presentation or refer participants to the redcross.org Web site.

*Symptoms: fever, sore throat, cough, runny/stuffy nose, extreme tiredness, headache, muscle aches/pains, stomach problems (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)

Seasonal: predictable pattern, most people have some immunity, usually affects at risk population, vaccine

Pandemic: 3 times in last century, little or no immunity, spreads quickly, affects normally not at risk people (young and healthy), no developed vaccine

Protect yourself: wash hands (hot water, scrub with soap, 20seconds), vampire cough and sneeze, disinfect all common areas

Masks:

We do not know how effective the use of masks would be in a flu pandemic.The American Red Cross recommends including masks (N95 and surgical) among pandemic flu preparedness supplies.Masks are not a substitute for practicing healthy behaviors.

Vaccine:

Scientists are researching flu vaccines.If a vaccine is developed for pandemic flu, it may not be available due to challenges with manufacturing and distribution.

Prepare: Disaster preparedness for 2 weeks ( how long you might have to stay isolated or at home with a sick loved one). Need to make sure you have rehydration solution: either Pedialyte or make your own (4c water, 2tblsp sugar, tsp salt). Will need for those vomiting or have diarrhea.

Dehydration is what kills most people with the flu!

*Get a flu shotIf you are sick stay home*