Earthquakes are sudden and can strike without warning. That’s why the American Red Cross (AMC) offers tools that can help everyone to be better prepared for this type of disaster. For example, the American Red Cross Earthquake App puts lifesaving information right in the hands of people who live in or who visit earthquake prone areas.
This free app-–available in English or Spanish-–is the third in a series created by the American Red Cross, the nation’s leader in emergency preparedness, for use on both iPhone and Android platforms. “This newest app gives instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after earthquakes,” said Lee Vanessa Feliciano, regional chapter executive for the AMC Caribbean Region. “USVI residents will receive earthquake notifications and can monitor activity where other family and friends reside. People who do not live in earthquake-prone areas can have peace of mind knowing you’ll have instant information about loved ones.”
Other features of the app include:
• Earthquake notifications showing the epicenter, magnitude and intensity maps
• One touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way
• Options to view the app in English or Spanish based on user handset settings
• Simple steps and checklists people can use to create a family emergency plan
• Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity
• Information on events that may happen after earthquakes such as fires and tsunamis
• Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm
Prepare a home earthquake plan:
AMC urges each and every household to develop a household disaster plan.
• Choose a safe place in every room — under a sturdy table or desk or against an inside wall where nothing can fall on you.
• Practice drop, cover and hold on at least twice a year. Drop under a sturdy desk or table, hold on and protect your eyes by pressing your face against your arm. If there’s no table or desk nearby, sit on the floor against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases, or tall furniture that could fall on you. Teach children to drop, cover and hold on!
• Choose an out-of-town family contact.
• Consult a professional to find out additional ways you can protect your home, such as bolting the house to its foundation and other structural mitigation techniques.
• Take a first aid and CPR class from the U.S.V.I. Red Cross Chapter so you will know how to respond to emergencies in the event that help is delayed.
• Get training in how to use a fire extinguisher from your local fire department.
• Inform babysitters and caregivers of your plan.
Get or assemble an emergency preparedness kit:
A portable kit, stored in a sturdy, easy to carry, water resistant container should have enough supplies for three days. Check your kit and replace perishable stock every six months. Whether you purchase a kit or choose to build your own, your three-day kit should include:
• First aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
• Written instructions for how to turn off gas, electricity, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you’ll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on)
• Keeping essentials, such as a flashlight and sturdy shoes, by your bedside
