An Essential Post Home Purchase Step in California: Creating an Earthquake Safety Plan

An Essential Post Home Purchase Step in California: Creating an Earthquake Safety Plan

Those of us who live in California take earthquake preparedness for granted sometimes but the truth is that we do understand that people from out of state who buy homes in California may not know how to stay safe. Keep reading for a very basic guide from your neighborhood escrow company.

Know What to Do if an Earthquake Occurs

First, let us cover the basics of what to do if you are in an earthquake. If you are driving, pull the car over, stop, and set your parking brake. If you are in bed when it happens, turn your face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you are outdoors, stay there and stay away from buildings if possible.

Despite what you may have seen on TV shows and in movies, you should not run outside and you should not stand in the doorway. Drop, cover, and hold on. Get to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and wait for the hurricane to stop.

How to Prepare Before an Earthquake Occurs

Of course, as true of all disasters, the best time to prepare for an earthquake is before it has happened. Do this by practicing drop, cover, and hold on. If you have heavy objects that hang on walls, such as bookcases or TVs, make sure they are secured. Anything that is heavy and breakable should be on a low shelf.

Have a family emergency communication plan with an out-of-state contact. Know where you will meet if you are separated and cannot get ahold of each other by phone. Create a supply kit with food and water that can last for three days, along with a fire extinguisher and flashlight.

What You Should Know Before Buying a Homeowner’s Insurance in California

Many people do not realize that in California, the standard homeowners’ insurance policy does not cover damage caused by earthquakes. The good news is that there is coverage but you will have to obtain it as a separate coverage. It may make more sense to take the money you would spend on homeowners’ insurance and use it to make your home more structurally sound so that it is more likely to withstand an earthquake.

Know What Can Happen After an Earthquake

Being prepared for an earthquake and doing the right thing while it is happening are the first two steps but there is a third: Knowing what may happen afterward. For example, aftershocks can go on for hours. Tsunamis can form. Know the dangers to avoid after an earthquake and you will be at a better advantage to stay safe.

Ready To Get Started?

Call us today at 310-378-2456 or Contact Us here:

Contact Us