Emergency Survival Program (ESP)

Then and now

In large regional earthquakes, such as the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, or the terrorism acts of September 11, 2001, emergency response agencies might be overwhelmed. You, your neighbors, co-workers and classmates may be forced to take actions on your own. Take time now to learn about what happened then and how it can prepare you for the safety actions to take now.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (360 KB PDF)
The 7 Steps to Safety from Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Secure it now!

Reducing and/or eliminating hazards throughout your home, neighborhood, workplace and school can greatly reduce your risk of injury or death following the next earthquake or other disaster. Conduct a "hazard hunt" to help identify and fix things such as unsecured televisions, computers, bookcases, furniture, unstrapped water heaters, etc. Securing these items now will help to protect you tomorrow.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (804 KB PDF)
Step #1 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Make a plan

Planning for an earthquake, terrorist attack, or other emergency is not much different from planning for a party or vacation. Make sure that your emergency plan includes evacuation and reunion plans; your out-of-state contact person's name and number; the location of your emergency supplies and other pertinent information. By planning now, you will be ready for the next emergency.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (436 KB PDF)
Step #2 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Make disaster kits

Everyone should have disaster supplies kits stored in accessible locations at home, at work and in your vehicle. Having emergency supplies readily available can reduce the impact of an earthquake, a terrorist incident or other emergency on you and your family. Your disaster supplies kits should include food, water, flashlights, portable radios, batteries, a first aid kit, cash, extra medications, a whistle, fire extinguisher, etc.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (432 KB PDF)
Step #3 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Is your place safe?

Most houses are not as safe as they could be. Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, there are things that you can do to improve the structural integrity of your home. Some of the things that you might consider checking include inadequate foundations, unbraced cripple walls, soft first stories, unreinforced masonry and vulnerable pipes. Consult a contractor or engineer to help you identify your building's weaknesses and begin to fix them now.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (620 KB PDF)
Step #4 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Drop, cover, and hold on!

Learn what to do during an earthquake, whether you're at home, at work, at school or just out and about. Taking the proper actions, such as "Drop, Cover, and Hold On", can save lives and reduce your risk of death or injury. During earthquakes, drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it firmly. Be prepared to move with it until the shaking stops.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (480 KB PDF)
Step #5 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Check it out!

One of the first things you should do following a major disaster is to check for injuries and damages that need immediate attention. Make sure you are trained in first aid and in damage assessment techniques. You should be able to administer first aid and to identify hazards such as damaged gas, water, sewage and electrical lines. Be prepared to report damage to city or county government.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (560 KB PDF)
Step #6 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Communicate and recover!

Following a major disaster, communication will be an important step in your recovery efforts. Turn on your portable radio for information and safety advisories. If your home is damaged, contact your insurance agent right away to begin your claims process. For most Presidentially declared disasters, resources will also be available from federal, state, and local government agencies.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (408 KB PDF)
Step #7 in Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country

Back to school

Schools should have emergency plans to meet the threat of terrorism, earthquakes and other emergencies. They should be updated and exercised regularly. Emergency supplies, such as water, food and other basic items, are also an important part of school preparedness. If you are a parent or guardian, make sure your child's school is well prepared and that it is a safe place to learn.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (472 KB PDF)

Fire and ice

Preparedness is the key to surviving wild land fires and lethal winter storms. Timely preparation, including structural and nonstructural measures to avoid the impacts of wildfires and severe winter weather, can help reduce heavy repair expenditures following an event. Also remember to keep your car and other vehicles fueled and in good repair in case you are asked to evacuate. Have your emergency survival kit ready to go with you, just in case.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (332 KB PDF)

Test your plan

One way to find out how well your emergency plan is going to work is to practice it. Plan a drill based on a make-believe earthquake, fire, terrorist attack or other disaster. Testing your plan this way will help you to identify and correct any weaknesses before a real emergency occurs. It will also help members of your family or group feel confident in being able to work together. Remember -- Practice Makes Perfect!

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (324 KB PDF)

Lend a hand

Local fire, law enforcement, medical services and other personnel might be overwhelmed and unable to assist you after a damaging event. You may be asked to lend a hand. There are many programs, such as the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program and the American Red Cross that can provide valuable training for you and your family. Learn about these and other resources now.

Download this Emergency Survival Program focus sheet (324 KB PDF)

Other earthquake facts...

Even more facts about earthquakes, faults, and preparedness can be found in the handbook, Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country, available online from SCEC.

Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Countryis a product of the Southern California Earthquake Center and the United States Geological Survey, with additional support of organizations listed on the acknowledgements page.