In addition to learning the safe areas and escape routes, everyone should know these two things:

Contacting Emergency Services

We all need to understand when and how to contact emergency services. 9-1-1 is the main emergency phone number in Canada and the United States; however, there could be a municipality within these two countries which does not have access to the 9-1-1 service. In this case one would need to contact the municipality’s emergency services which may be just a regular phone number. It is important for everyone to know these numbers in the case of an earthquake. These numbers are usually on every payphone in the city or town, and in every phone book. If going on vacation, be sure to find out these numbers to be safe.

Knowing the emergency numbers isn’t the only thing to know. Knowing WHEN to call is just as important. When panicked, we all jump to the phone to call 9-1-1. By doing this during an earthquake, we could potentially have other people needing real, sudden help not get the required services because they could not get through to the phone service or all the emergency vehicles are being used. Only call emergency services when it is a life threatening situation. Broken bones, stuck under debris, and fires are all viable situations to call 9-1-1. Houses falling down but having everyone out are not the first priority of the emergency crews, and thus they should not be bothered with this kind of situation when it happens.

Know How to Turn Off Essentials

Educating members of the household or building how to turn off the main water and gas pipes could prevent problems such as gas leaks, floods, and in the end, suffocation.

Electricity is a hazard too, and therefore everyone should be educated on how to turn it off as well. There is usually a main circuit breaker in every building. Flicking a switch shuts off electricity quick and easily, preventing any electrical injuries.