Earthquake preparedness

Common survival measures include storing food and water for an emergency, and educating individuals what to do during an earthquake.

Likewise, avoiding storing items above beds or sofas reduces the chance of objects falling on individuals.

Codes are not designed to make buildings earthquake proof in the sense of them suffering zero damage.

[4] Although the Richter Scale is referenced, the localized shaking intensity is one of the largest factors to be considered in building resiliency.

Preparedness starts with an individual's everyday life and involves items and training that would be useful in an earthquake.

The US FEMA has advice noting that "Disasters can leave children feeling frightened, confused, and insecure" whether a child has experienced it first hand, had it happen to a friend or simply seen it on television.

[14] The United States Department of Health and Human Services addresses specific emergency preparedness issues hospitals may have to respond to, including maintaining a safe temperature, providing adequate electricity for life support systems and even carrying out evacuations under extreme circumstances.

[18] Levels of preparedness generally remain low, despite attempts to increase public awareness.