Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › earthquake preparedness

How to Prepare a Family Emergency Plan for Earthquakes and Tsunamis

By Freedom251 Team · · 11 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The safest family plan is location-specific: identify every earthquake and tsunami hazard zone your household uses, choose destinations and walking routes with local officials, write down communication and reunion rules, prepare accessible supplies, and practice the actions before an emergency. During shaking, drop, cover and hold on. If you are in a tsunami hazard area and feel a strong or long earthquake, hear a roar from the ocean, or see unusual water movement, evacuate to high ground or inland as soon as it is safe—do not wait for an official alert.

1. Start with the hazards around your real daily locations

A plan made only for your home can fail when an earthquake or tsunami occurs while family members are at school, work, childcare, shopping, traveling or outdoors. Make a list of places each household member visits regularly, then check the current earthquake, tsunami-hazard and evacuation maps for each one.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Inventory the places that need a plan

  • Home and any second residence.
  • Children’s schools, childcare centers and activity locations.
  • Workplaces, campuses and regular customer or job sites.
  • Routes used for commuting, school runs and recreation.
  • Frequently visited beaches, harbors, rivers, bridges and waterfront facilities.
  • Homes of relatives, caregivers and neighbors who may need assistance.

Local maps and emergency-management instructions take precedence over general advice. If an address, route or assembly area is unclear, ask the local emergency-management office. Record the map’s date and check for updates rather than assuming a familiar route remains valid.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose a safe destination for every starting point

For each location, identify a destination outside the mapped tsunami evacuation zone. Depending on local guidance, that may be higher ground inland, a designated evacuation center or another named safe area. Do not select a destination solely because it is a tall building. Some communities publish vertical-evacuation plans; use only structures and floors that local officials have specifically designated.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Midland - WR120B - NOAA Emergency Weather Alert Radio | Localized Programming, Trilingual Display, 60+ Emergency Alerts, Alarm, Selectable Alert Tone
  • NOAA Weather Scan & Alert - This emergency weather alert radio features S.A.M.E localized programming and alert you to over 60 kinds of weather hazards and emergencies. NOAA Weather Scan will automatically alert you of events.
  • S.A.M.E Localized Programming - The Specific Area Message Encoding (S.A.M.E.) allows the user to enter a code that is specific to your country, state, county and in some cases partial county.
  • Notification Settings - Program your radio to receive weather alerts from up to 25 different counties and be alerted only when those specific counties are threatened. Color-coded alert indicators show the alert type and its severity.
  • Additional Features - SAME localized programming, continuous backlighting option which keeps the LCD on, 25 programmable counties, color-coded alert indicators, alert override automatically switches to warn of impending danger.
  • Experience a comprehensive range of radios from Midland, designed to keep you connected and informed. Our radios offer an array of features, including reliable real-time weather alerts, and robust two-way communication capabilities.
Starting point Primary destination Backup destination Route and constraints
Home Write the locally designated safe area Write a second approved area Note stairs, gates, bridges, steep sections and flood-prone crossings
School or childcare Use the institution’s designated assembly area Record its alternate location Follow the school’s release and reunification rules
Workplace Use the employer’s evacuation destination Record an approved alternative Note which exits remain usable if elevators or roads fail
Regular waterfront location Use the posted local evacuation destination Record a route away from waterways Identify signs, stairs and places where crowds may bottleneck

Plan to walk, and map alternatives

Earthquake damage can block roads, disable traffic signals, damage bridges and create congestion. Plan a route that can be walked, and a second route if the first is blocked. Mark exits, stairways, bridges, narrow passages and places where fallen debris could slow movement. Keep a paper copy because a phone may be lost, damaged or unable to connect.

Walk each route with the people who will use it. Practice in daylight, at night and in poor weather when practical. Include routes from home, school, work and other regular locations—not just the route from your front door.

2. Put communication and reunion rules in writing

Family members may be separated when an event occurs. Decide in advance how they will exchange status messages, who will make decisions for children, and where they will meet if normal communications or transportation fail.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Create a contact hierarchy

  1. Choose an out-of-area contact who can relay information when local phone networks are congested. Ask that person in advance and write down their full name and several ways to reach them.
  2. List every household member’s mobile number, workplace or school number, medical contact and emergency contact.
  3. Agree on a short message format, such as name, location, condition and intended destination. Text messages may work when voice calls do not, but do not depend on a single service.
  4. Set a rule for when to stop trying to travel and shelter instead. Safety takes priority over immediate reunification.
  5. Choose reunion points outside the hazard zone: one close to home and one farther away. Use a location that is recognizable and accessible without entering a beach, harbor, river channel or other restricted area.

Coordinate with schools, childcare and workplaces

Ask each institution for its emergency plan, evacuation destination, notification method and child-release procedure. Learn who is authorized to collect a child and what identification is required. Make your household plan compatible with those procedures; do not instruct a child to leave school independently if the school’s policy requires supervised release.

Rank #2
Sale
FosPower NOAA Emergency Weather Radio A1 7400mWh Solar Hand Crank (Orange) | AM/FM/WB power bank 4 power options SOS alarm LED flashlight & 4 LED reading light for outdoor emergency & power outage use.
  • [7400mWh (2000mAh) POWER BANK WILL KEEP DEVICES POWERED] The FosPower FOSPWB-2376 emergency radio incorporates a 7400mWh (2000mAh) power bank capable of providing emergency power to any small tablet or phone.
  • [3 POWER SOURCES POWER WHEN YOU NEED IT] Use the emergency weather radio's 3 power sources when you need a boost of power or need to recharge the radio. The radio's crank lever and solar panel are both capable of regenerating enough power to keep the radio, lights, and SOS alarm ready to go when you need it most. AAA Batteries ensure you have power when not able to regenerate power.
  • [2 LIGHT SOURCES ALWAYS POWERED] The emergency crank radio can also provide light. The 4 LED reading light and 1W flashlight provides enough output to keep you and your loved ones out of the dark in an emergency situation.
  • [NOAA EMERGENCY WEATHER BROADCAST ACCESS] The radio will dependably receive up to the second emergency weather forecasts and emergency news broadcasts from NOAA and AM/FM stations.
  • [LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY] Includes a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Please visit FosPower's website for more information.

Ask workplaces how they account for employees, where they evacuate and how they communicate after a disaster. If a family member provides care for an older adult, disabled person or animal, include that person’s plan and a backup caregiver.

Keep the plan usable on paper

Print the contact list, maps, meeting points, medical information, medication list and instructions for pets. Give copies to household members, caregivers and trusted relatives. Store a copy in a waterproof sleeve at home and another in a work or vehicle kit. Update it after a move, new school, new workplace, change in custody, medical change, new pet or change in mobility.

A NOAA-hosted household handbook recommends discussing and practicing the plan annually. Treat that as a minimum review cycle, and review sooner after any major household change.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Know the earthquake-to-tsunami sequence

During earthquake shaking: drop, cover and hold on

  1. Drop to your hands and knees before the shaking knocks you down.
  2. Cover your head and neck and, if possible, get under a sturdy table or desk. Stay away from windows, glass, tall unsecured furniture and objects that can fall.
  3. Hold on to the shelter until the shaking stops. If it moves, move with it while protecting your head and neck.

If no sturdy shelter is nearby, get low next to an interior wall or low furniture and cover your head and neck with your arms. Do not run outside during strong shaking; falling glass, masonry, signs and utility equipment can make exits dangerous. Expect aftershocks and repeat drop, cover and hold on whenever the ground shakes again.

Rank #3
Midland - WR400 Weather Radio Deluxe - NOAA Emergency Alert Scanner – Home Use with Battery Backup - Local County Programming Over 80 Emergency Voice Flashing Alerts – Alarm Clock AM/FM Radio
  • NOAA Weather Scan + Alert: NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area. NOAA Weather Radio will also be used to broadcast AMBER alerts for missing children.
  • S.A.M.E Programming: Improve your emergency preparedness with equipped with digital S.A.M.E. technology, weather radio seamlessly connects to your county's warning system, providing you with instant weather updates from the National Weather Service. Features a convenient USB output, allowing you to charge your devices directly from the radio itself. Program up to 25 counties and choose from 80 different emergency alerts, this advanced weather radio from Midland ensures that you stay informed.
  • Warning System: Experience customizable alert options with the WR400 Warning System. You have the flexibility to choose how you want to be alerted, whether it's through an 85 dB siren alarm, a voice alert, or a visual LED flasher. 80 different emergency alerts to keep you informed about various critical situations. Emergency power backup functionality. By using four "AA" batteries (not included), ensure that the radio continues to operate during power outages or when you're using it outdoors.
  • Features: Experience the convenience of an Alarm Clock Radio with the Midland WR400. Features a built-in clock with an alarm and a snooze button, along with an AM/FM radio. Wake up to your choice of local weather updates, AM/FM radio stations, or a traditional buzzing alarm. Automatically switches from AM/FM mode to relevant all-hazard alerts, and you'll receive important emergency alerts without having to manually switch modes. Stay informed and start your day off right.
  • Alarm Clock: The built-in clock features an alarm with a snooze button and a AM/FM Radio. Wake up to local weather, AM/FM, or buzz. It automatically switches from AM/FM to pertinent all-hazard alerts.

Different settings require small adjustments. In bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow unless something above you is falling. In a vehicle, stop when safe, set the parking brake and remain inside until shaking ends, avoiding bridges, overpasses, trees and power lines. Outdoors, move away from buildings, walls, signs, poles and overhead wires.

Recognize natural tsunami warnings

In or near a tsunami hazard zone, treat any of these as an immediate warning:

  • A strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand, or an earthquake that lasts a long time.
  • A loud roar or unusual sound from the ocean.
  • Unusual water behavior, such as water rising rapidly, a fast-moving flood, a wall of water or a sudden drawdown that exposes the seafloor.

NOAA states that a natural tsunami warning may be the first, best or only warning that a tsunami is coming. Once shaking has stopped enough for you to move safely, go quickly to the locally designated high ground or inland destination. Do not wait for a siren, text, television report or official announcement when natural signs are present.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Apply the warning correctly outside the evacuation zone

If you are outside the mapped tsunami hazard or evacuation zone and receive a warning, the National Weather Service says to stay where you are unless local officials direct you to move. Do not create unnecessary traffic toward or away from the coast based only on rumors. If officials order evacuation, follow their route and destination instructions.

Rank #4
NOAA Weather Radio AM FM, AA Battery Radio for Power Outages PRUNUS J161 | Handheld, Best Reception,Stereo Earphone Jack, for Emergency, Hurricane, Storm, Running, Walking,Home, Transistor Radio
  • PRETTY PORTABLE - The noaa radio is as portable as an iPhone, its compact size makes it easy to store in your emergency kit and backpack without taking up much space, and you can easily hold it with just one hand. Comes with a handy lanyard, it's convenient for you to listen.Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.8 x 1.2in, Weight: 0.24lb (exclude battery).
  • A ESSENTIAL TO EMERGENCY KIT - This battery radio emergency is about weather news. Weather Band: 162.40-162.55kHz (include 7 NOAA),FM: 87-108 MHz, AM:520-1710 kHz Covering 7 NOAA weather bands, it delivers timely updates on upcoming severe weather conditions like storms, hurricanes and tornadoes, even when power fails or there is no internet available. So you'll get valuable time to stay prepared for emergencies. Note: Not support automatic notification for NOAA alerts.
  • BATTERY POWERED RADIO - Runs on just 2 AA batteries, this noaa emergency weather radio ensures continuous operation during power outages, as long as you keep some spare AA batteries at home. When you’re out and about, toss some AA batteries in your bag, and save the hassle of searching for a power outlet. It’s your reliable companion for staying informed and safe.
  • SIMPLE OPERATION - It’s a storm radio. Only 3 controls - one for power and volume, one for tuning and one for band selection - tuning in to your favorite station is a breeze. No headaches from the confusing digital screen and buttons; just get relaxed with this weather radio battery powered.
  • 2 PLAYBACK MODES - This portable weather radio is equipped with an internal magnetic speaker with 2 sound holes in the front and back, providing a crisp, balanced and stereo sound experience. Plus, if you're in the mood for a little 'me time', simply plug in your headphones for undisturbed enjoyment of music, news, or talk shows.

Evacuate safely

  • Follow local evacuation signs and maps, not an improvised shortcut toward the shoreline.
  • Move inland or uphill and stay away from beaches, marinas, rivers, estuaries and other waterways that can carry tsunami waves inland.
  • Walk when feasible so emergency vehicles can move and blocked roads do not trap your family.
  • Help children, older adults, people with disabilities and anyone who needs medication or mobility equipment.
  • Take only the portable bag you can carry without slowing the group. Do not return for possessions.

4. Build reliable alert and information channels

Natural warning signs and official alerts serve different purposes. A phone alert can be delayed, missed or unavailable, so it supplements rather than replaces your ability to recognize danger and act.

Channel Action before an event Limitation to plan for
Local emergency alerts Enroll every eligible phone and review the jurisdiction’s sign-up instructions Registration methods differ by city, county, state and tribe
Wireless Emergency Alerts Keep compatible phones powered and configured to receive them A message is not guaranteed to arrive before a nearby tsunami
NOAA Weather Radio Keep a battery-operated radio and spare batteries where it can be heard Reception and alert coverage depend on location; test it periodically
Radio and television Know which local stations carry emergency information Power, transmitters or internet services may fail
Sirens and loudspeakers Learn what local siren tones and announcements mean You may not hear them indoors, in a vehicle or far from the warning system
Officials and trusted notifications Follow instructions from local emergency managers and first responders Social-media rumors can conflict with official directions

Set up the household’s alert routine

  1. Subscribe to the current local emergency-alert service for home, school, work and other relevant jurisdictions.
  2. Enable wireless emergency alerts on each phone and keep operating systems updated enough to support them.
  3. Place a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio where it is accessible during a power outage. Store spare batteries with it and check the volume and reception.
  4. Write down local radio stations and official websites or telephone lines used for emergency information.
  5. Assign one person to monitor official updates when the family is together, while everyone remains prepared to act on natural warning signs without waiting for that person.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

5. Assemble portable supplies for people, pets and places

The National Weather Service recommends an easily accessible portable disaster-supplies kit and suggests considering kits for the car and workplace. A 2015 NOAA-hosted handbook notes that an emergency kit and an evacuation bag can be combined or kept separate. You do not need to buy new items if useful supplies are already at home; gather, label and maintain what your household actually needs.

Category Examples to tailor to your household Where to keep it
Water and food Water containers, ready-to-eat food, infant or medical diets and a manual can opener Home kit and a portable bag; additional supplies where local guidance recommends
Light and communication Flashlight, spare batteries, portable radio and whistle Near exits and in kits that can be carried
Protection from debris and weather Gloves, dust masks, eye protection, sturdy shoes, blanket and poncho At the bedside, near exits and in portable kits
Health Prescription medicines, first-aid supplies, glasses, hearing-device batteries and copies of medical information Waterproof pouch in the home kit and a carryable backup where appropriate
Power and documents Power banks, charging cables, identification copies, contacts, maps and cash if needed locally Waterproof pouch in the home kit and a duplicate in a vehicle or workplace kit
Children Age-appropriate food, comfort items, diapers, formula and a child information card In the family bag and at the child’s regular care location if permitted
Pets and service animals Food, water, medications, leash or carrier, waste bags, identification and vaccination records With the portable kit; keep a carrier or leash immediately accessible

Make supplies accessible, not merely abundant

Keep kits where adults and older children can reach them without crossing broken glass or opening a jammed cabinet. Avoid storing the only supplies in a basement or garage that could be inaccessible after structural damage. Use containers that one person can carry, and label medications, pet items and mobility equipment clearly.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Account for allergies, refrigeration-dependent medicines, oxygen, mobility devices, communication needs, language needs and assistance animals. Ask a clinician or pharmacist how to maintain a safe emergency supply of essential medicines; do not change a prescription schedule without professional advice.

Best Value
Sale
Raynic Emergency Radio, 5000mAh/18500mWh Weather Radio, Solar Hand Crank Radio with AM/FM/SW/NOAA Alert, Cell Phone Charger, Headphone Jack, Flashlight and SOS Siren
  • AUTOMATIC NOAA WEATHER ALERT RADIO - This weather alert radio may save your life! Especially important at night while you are sleeping! It auto-scans for emergency and weather alerts when you turn the device on or in standby mode,and alert you if any emergency warning is issued. No need to listen to the weather broadcast all day and night. Getting an NOAA alert about impending weather threats gives you a heads-up that bad weather is on the way, so you can prepare or even evacuate if necessary.
  • LARGE HD LCD DISPLAY - A must weather radio with a large HD LCD display screen and digital tuning, you can see the battery level and current tuning frequency, which can provide reliable AM/FM/SW/WB reception, and accurately pick your favorite channel. Press on "Tune+" or "Tune-" to auto-scan and easily find your favorite show. Long press on the "Dimmer" button to turn off the backlit LCD screen and enter the power-saving mode.
  • 6-WAY CHARGING OPTIONS - An NOAA Weather radio with multiple charging backup options is the ideal choice. 6-way charging options including a built-in rechargable backup battery, an AC adapter, DC 5V USB input,hand-crank, solar panel, and 3 AAA batteries(not included in packing), which is more powerful and reliable, which can provide instant, automatic, around-the-clock messages regarding weather alerts.
  • EMERGENCY RADIO & SOS ALARM - When hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, or other emergencies may occur, an NOAA alert radio can provide life-saving information. A built-in super-bright 3W flashlight and 2.5W reading lamp are critical if the power outage. It also includes a USB connector used to charge your USB-enabled smart devices for communication. Simply press the SOS button that activated a loud alert partnered with an eye-catching flashing red light for emergency assistance.
  • PORTABLE RADIO & HEADPHONE JACK - This portable radio is small, light, and IPX3 water-resistant, only 1.2LB, measures: 6.8×3.7×2.9 inches, which is easier to carry with you anywhere. Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack, allowing you to listen to the weather broadcast at night without disturbing your travel buddies. Weather alerts are beneficial during outdoor adventures like fishing, camping, and hiking, can keep you well-prepared for severe weather and stay safe.

Check supplies on a regular schedule and refresh expired food, batteries, medications and pet products. Keep a smaller bag at work and in the car when feasible, but do not let a vehicle kit replace a walking plan.

6. Practice the plan as a sequence, not a discussion

A household can remember a plan under stress only if it has rehearsed the decisions. Practice at least annually and after major changes.

Run an earthquake drill

  1. Call out “earthquake” without warning family members in advance.
  2. Everyone drops, covers the head and neck, and holds on in the nearest safe position.
  3. After the simulated shaking stops, check for injuries and hazards without using elevators or entering damaged areas.
  4. Repeat the drill for a second aftershock.

Run a tsunami evacuation drill

  1. Start with a scenario in which a strong or long earthquake has occurred at a home, school or workplace in the hazard zone.
  2. Have each person identify the nearest safe route and take the portable bag, shoes, medication and pet equipment assigned to them.
  3. Walk the route to the designated destination, noting blocked paths, confusing signs, steep sections and places where a slower person needs assistance.
  4. Practice the alternate route and the family’s out-of-area contact procedure.
  5. Record problems and revise the written plan, maps, supplies or responsibilities.

Include nighttime conditions, rain, power loss and a scenario in which one adult is absent. Ask children to explain what they would do in their own words. Do not stage a drill in a way that causes people to enter an actual restricted area or puts anyone at risk.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

7. Plan for the first hours and the return decision

After an earthquake, avoid fallen power lines and damaged buildings, bridges and piers. Expect additional shaking and follow official instructions about fires, gas leaks, landslides, flooding and closed roads.

If a tsunami warning or natural warning has caused evacuation, stay outside the hazard or evacuation zone until local officials give the all-clear. The first wave may not be the largest, and dangerous waves and currents can continue for hours or days. Do not return to collect belongings, inspect property or help others unless authorities say the route is safe and your assistance is requested.

8. Fix the failure points families commonly miss

  • One route: Add a walkable alternative from every regular starting point.
  • One contact method: Combine local alerts, wireless alerts, radio and NOAA Weather Radio; retain paper contacts.
  • Assuming the phone will warn you: Act on a strong or long earthquake and other natural tsunami signs without waiting for a message.
  • Choosing a destination without checking maps: Use the current local evacuation zone and designated destinations.
  • Leaving children’s schools out of the plan: Learn their evacuation and release procedures and keep authorization records current.
  • Forgetting pets or medical needs: Assign a caregiver, transport method, medicines and supplies for every animal and person.
  • Storing supplies where they cannot be carried: Divide heavy items and keep portable bags accessible.
  • Returning after the first wave: Wait for the official all-clear, even if water appears to recede.

9. Keep a one-page household plan

Your full plan can include maps and inventories, but a one-page summary should be easy to grab. Include:

  • Home, school, workplace and regular-location evacuation destinations.
  • Primary and alternate walking routes.
  • Meeting points inside and outside the local area.
  • Out-of-area contact and every household member’s phone number.
  • School, childcare, workplace and caregiver procedures.
  • Names and needs of children, older adults, people with disabilities, pets and service animals.
  • Locations of portable bags, medication, shoes, flashlights, radio and spare batteries.
  • Local alert enrollment details and official information channels.
  • The instruction: drop, cover and hold on during shaking; evacuate on natural tsunami signs; remain out until officials give the all-clear.

Review the page annually and whenever the household’s locations, responsibilities, health needs or local instructions change.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

earthquake preparednessemergency preparednessevacuation planningfamily emergency plantsunami safety

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.