San Diego Gas & Electric offers the following information in the event of an earthquake:
For those of us living in California, the need to be prepared for earthquakes is vital. Preparedness ensures that if disaster occurs, people are ready to get through it safely, and respond to it effectively. Whether you’re an individual citizen, a volunteer group, or a government agency, preparedness means figuring out what you’ll do if essential services break down, developing a plan for contingencies, and practicing a plan. There are several safety precautions that gas and electric customers can take to be better prepared.
Be Informed
- Everyone should be familiar with the location and operation of each main utility service of their building:
- Main gas meter shut-off valve (place a wrench nearby)
- Main water valve
- Electrical panel in your unit
- Main electrical panel at exterior closet
- The Phonebook also has information on earthquake preparedness, basic first aid and CPR
- Conduct a hazard hunt in your home to identify the safe areas away from glass and falling objects and to secure items that might fall when shaken
- Develop a family emergency plan/practice which includes:
- How to duck, cover, and hold
- An evacuation plan
- A place to reunite
- Develop a contact person 300 miles away or rson with a list of people to call and notify for you outside of disaster area
- Place an emergency phone list near the phone
- Learn first-aid and CPR
- Make sure every member of the family over age ten (10) knows how to shut-off gas, water and electricity
- Move heavy items to lower shelves
- Remove or isolate flammable materials
- Install latch locking devices on cabinet doors
- Inform family that if you are in the kitchen, during and earthquake, you should turn off cooking appliances at the first sign of shaking as long as it is safe to do so
Be Prepared
- Purchase or create an earthquake kit that contains:
- Flash light
- Spare bulb
- Portable radio
- First-aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Candles and matches (make sure there are no gas leaks)
- Basic tool kit
- Fire extinguisher, rating type A.B.C.
- Non perishable food (suggested two (2) weeks per person)
- Can opener (non-electric)
- Water (1-2 gallons per person per day)
- Crowbar (for use in forcing open jammed doors)
- Essential medic ation
- Eyeglasses (spare)
- Whistle
- Watch/clock (battery powered)
- Cash (ATM machine and banks may be out of service)
- Your vehicle (it may be a good idea to store some of these items in your vehicle)
After Earthquake Checklist
- Yourself
- Family, neighbors (trapped or injured)
- Gas leaks (do not shut off your gas unless you smell gas)
- Check gas and electric lines and appliances for damage; however, do not use electrical switches or candles to check for damage
- If you smell gas, open the windows and doors. Leave the residence, and shut off the gas at the valve. Call SDG&E at 1-800-411-SDGE (7343) to report gas leak
- Fire place
- Gas water heater
- Stove area
- Electrical (visually check for electrical sparks or broken wires which pose a hazard)
- Broken glass and any other hazards
- Water (check for broken water and sewer lines. Don’t drink water unless it’s safe)
- Phone (check for dial tone; do not use unless an emergency)
General Safety
- Check for injuries and render necessary first aid
- Check for hazards in and around your home
- Evacuate, if necessary
- Gather stored supplies
- Develop a twenty-four (24) hour survival plan
- Turn on battery-powered radio for information
- Review and adjust your survival plan as necessary
- Do not turn the electricity or gas back on until SDG&E or a qualified contractor has check the house for safety
- If there is damage to the home’s electrical wiring, switch off electrical power at circuit box
- Do not touch downed or damaged power lines, even if there appears to be no power. Call SDG&E at 1-800-411-SDGE (7343) to report downed or damaged power lines
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