Major earthquakes, in recent years, have made headlines around the world. The last major earthquake in San Francisco was in 1989. It caused casualties and billions of dollars in property damage. Familiarity with earthquake preparedness can make an important difference in how you handle a crisis, particularly if help is not immediately available. Action taken now is an investment in helping to safeguard you, your family and your possessions.

It is strongly encouraged that all Singaporeans who are residing in San Francisco permanently or temporarily register with the Mission.

Develop a family earthquake plan. Prepare yourself your family and your home by completing the activities on this checklist.

• Decide how and when your family will reunite if separated.
• Choose an out-of-state friend or relative that separated family members can call after the quake to report their whereabouts and condition.
• Know the safe spots in each room: under sturdy tables, desks, or against inside walls.
• Know the danger spots: windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.
• Conduct practice drills. Physically place yourself in safe locations.
• Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resucitation) from your local Red Cross chapter or other community organization.
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers.
• Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in case the lines are damaged. [Safety note: Do not attempt to relight gas pilot. Call the utility company.]
• Check chimneys, roofs, walls, foundations for stability. Make sure your house is bolted to its foundation.
• Secure water heater and appliances that could move enough to repture utility lines.
• Keep breakables and heavy objects on bottom shelves.
• Secure heavy tall furniture that can topple, such as bookcases, china cabinets or wall units.
• Secure hanging plants and heavy picture frames or mirrors (especially over beds).
• Put latches on cabinet doors to keep them closed during shaking.
• Keep flammable or hazardous liquids such as paints, pest sprays or cleaning products in cabinets or secured on lower shelves.
• Maintain emergency food, water and other supplies, including a flashlight, a portable battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medicines, first aid kit and clothing. It is also useful to have a sports whistle which can be used to call for help when one is trapped under rubble and unable to shout for help.
  

If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table or stand in a corner.

If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, buildings, walls and power lines.

If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside until the shaking is over.

If in a highrise building, stay away from windows and outside walls. Get under a table. Do not use elevators.

If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors. Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.

Check for injuries. Apply first aid. Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger. Be prepared for aftershocks.

Do not use the telephone immediately unless there is a serious injury or fire.

Hunt for hazards:

• Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring or sewage lines. If there is damage, turn utility off at the source.
  
• Check building for cracks and damage, including roof, chimneys and foundation.
  
• Check food and water supplies. Emergency water may be obtained from water heaters, melted ice cubes, toilet tanks and canned vegetables.
  
• Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports. Cooperate fully with public safety officials.
  
• Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
  
• Stay calm and lend a hand to others.