Living in Utah means having an Earthquake as a neighbor. That is why it is a personal responsibility of each and every one to be aware of the possibility, that earthquake can occur unexpectedly; as well as to be prepared to take some actions in order to fight back its’ consequences.
First of all I have evaluated my home. I usually spend here up to 50% of my time, so it was reasonable to estimate the possible risk and try to eliminate it. I have found that I do not have much furniture, so I am not afraid that some heavy book may fall on my head; all the rest of my stuff is mostly located at the inside closet; I also do not have any heavily framed pictures on my walls, however, there are several posters on top of my bed and some Wal-Mart sayings about coffee on my kitchen; all my fire alarms function properly; I live in a 2 floor building constructed after 1980s, and I have also contacted my land lord, and he assured me that the building is of a proper condition in order to prevent undesired outcome of additional threat and damage in case of an earthquake.
Secondly, I have packed both personal as well as a household disaster kits. Luckily, I do not have any serious health issues, so a basic personal kit was enough to think about, however, I have also added some pain killers and light nepenthes. I also have a pack of gum, 2 large snickers, 3 cereal bars, 1 bottled coke and 1 bottle of vitamin water in my personal kit. Lack of sugar or calories is not my plan for the fast reaction to the emergency. My household disaster kit includes a tent for 3 persons, 2 blankets, 2 gallons of water, some canned goods (even 1 peanut butter jar), as well as 2 sets of warm clothes and sneakers. All my IDs and other important documents are also there. Both disaster kits are easy to access and are located in a corridor, so I will not waist much time looking for the first priority equipment.
I have been thinking about the possibility of a big earthquake to happen with me, so I got prepared with knowledge as well. I know the main rules of safe behavior during the earthquake; I am familiar with DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON technique; the safest spot in my apartment is my bedroom; I will definitely avoid tall buildings and constructions if outside; if I am driving, I will stop the car as soon as possible. More than that, I have some helpful skills of first AID and CPR that may be necessary once the trembling is over and it is safe to take any actions. Luckily, I used to work as a lifeguard, so I have an understanding for critical situations and a beneficial knowledge that may help others as well as me. I also carry my blood type information and the list of possible contacts in my wallet.
The main idea in my personal preparedness disaster plan is to wait before it is safe and possible to leave Utah. I do not have any pets, so I would not have to worry for that issue. My relatives live outside Utah and they can accept me for as long as it is needed. So as soon as the transportation is possible, I will try to evacuate from the state for a while. Perhaps, and most likely, some time will be spent in a general shelter, but that is a temporary measure and is completely reasonable. After the earthquake there will be time for everything to settle down to the point of where it is, and for people to get themselves together. Thinking of this, I already have $500 emergency savings on my bank account, and I am planning to get my earthquake insurance soon.
Unfortunately, you can never be completely prepared for something, especially, when this something ruins your life structure in couple of minutes. So when the earthquake comes, I will do my best to stay confident, sober with thoughts and actions taking, because I have a plan and I will stick to it in order to be ready to help others and myself.
