EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION
A severe earthquake can knock out our water and sewer systems. After the quake our emergency crews will be making repairs in the order of importance. Because services may not be available for several days following the event, it is essential that every household and family be prepared to survive on its own for 5-7 days until these services can be restored.
- If you have a broken water pipe, shut off your water at the main valve.
- Contact VVCSD immediately if you notice a sewer break.
- Water in your hot water tank is drinkable as is the water in your toilet tank if you do not use an in-tank chemical cleaner.
- Listen to your radio to hear information regarding Vandenberg Village.
- Do not use the washing machine, dishwasher, shower or tub until you hear that the water system is operating.
- Do not flush toilets or use drains until you hear the sewer system is operating.
The best way to respond to any emergency is to be prepared.
- Establish an Emergency Escape Route from your house
- Establish a Family Meeting Location
- Arrange a long-distance contact that family members can call to check in since local phone lines may be jammed.
- Keep your vehicle maintained and the fuel tank at least half full at all times
- Prepare an emergency supply kit. Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your safety and comfort during and after an earthquake. Store enough supplies for at least 72 hours.
- Prepare your home
- Get to know your neighbors, especially the elderly and disabled.
EMERGENCY SUPPLIES CHECKLIST:
Essentials
- Water — 2 gallons per person per day (a week’s supply of water is preferable)
- Water purification kit
- First aid kit, freshly stocked
- First aid book
- Food
- Can opener (non-electric)
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Portable radio, flashlight and spare batteries
- Essential medications
- Extra pair of eyeglasses
- Extra pair of house and car keys
- Fire extinguisher — A-B-C type
- Food, water and restraint (leash or carrier) for pets
- Cash and change
- Baby supplies: formula, bottle, pacifier, soap and baby powder, clothing, blankets, baby wipes, disposable diapers, canned food and juices.
Sanitation Supplies
- Large plastic trash bags for waste; tarps and rain ponchos
- Large trash cans
- Bar soap and liquid detergent
- Shampoo
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Feminine hygiene supplies
- Toilet paper
- Household bleach
Safety and Comfort
- Sturdy shoes
- Heavy gloves for clearing debris
- Candles and matches
- Light sticks
- Change of clothing
- Knife or razor blades
- Garden hose for siphoning and firefighting
- Tent
- Communication kit: paper, pens, stamps
Cooking
- Plastic knives, forks, spoons
- Paper plates and cups
- Paper towels
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Camping stove for outdoor cooking (caution: before using fire to cook, make sure there are no gas leaks; never use charcoal indoors)
Tools and Supplies
- Axe, shovel, broom
- Adjustable wrench for turning off gas
- Tool kit including a screwdriver, pliers and a hammer
- Coil of 1/2” rope
- Plastic tape, staple gun and sheeting for window replacement
- Bicycle
- City map
EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS LINKS
- LAFD Earthquake Preparedness Handbook
- California OES Earthquake Preparedness Tip Sheets
- American Red Cross - Earthquake Handbook
- FEMA: Earthquakes
- Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country