The Importance of Setting Up an Earthquake Safety Plan After You Purchase a California Home
Those of us who reside in California often take earthquake preparation for granted, but the fact is that we recognize that individuals who buy houses in California from out of state may not know how to keep safe. Continue reading for a quick primer from your local escrow business.
Know What to Do in the Event of an Earthquake
Let’s start with the basics of what to do in the event of an earthquake. If you’re driving, pull over to the side of the road, come to a complete stop, and use the parking brake. Turn your face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow if you’re in bed when it happens. If you’re outside, remain there as much as possible and avoid structures.
You should not hurry outdoors or stand in the doorway, despite what you may have seen on television or in movies. Drop, cover, and hang in there. Wait for the hurricane to pass. Get down on your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and wait for it to pass.
How to Prepare for an Earthquake Before It Happens
Naturally, like with other calamities, the ideal time to prepare for an earthquake is before it occurs. Drop, cover, and hang on is a good way to start. Make sure that any large things that hang on the wall, such as bookshelves or televisions, are properly fastened. Heavy and breakable items should be kept on a low shelf.
Have an out-of-state contact for your family’s emergency communication plan. If you’re separated and can’t reach each other by phone, plan ahead of time where you’ll meet. Make a three-day supply kit that includes food and water, as well as a fire extinguisher and flashlight.
What You Should Know Before Purchasing California Homeowner’s Insurance
Many individuals are unaware that earthquake damage is not covered by a regular homeowners’ insurance policy in California. The good news is that coverage is available, but it must be purchased separately. It could be more cost-effective to use the money you’d spend on homeowners’ insurance toward making your home more structurally sound so that it can withstand an earthquake.
Understand the Consequences of an Earthquake
The first two measures are to be prepared for an earthquake and to act appropriately when one is occurring, but there is a third: Knowing what could happen next. Aftershocks, for example, might last for hours. Tsunamis are natural disasters that can occur. You will have a greater chance of staying safe if you are aware of the risks to avoid following an earthquake.
