How to be Prepared
Electricity, water, gas and telephone may not be working after an earthquake. The police and fire
department are likely to be tied up. You should be prepared to take care of yourself for at least three
days, preferably for a week.
This list can also be applied to other disasters, such as floods or wildfires.
1.food and water (a gallon a day per person )
2.a first aid kit
3.a fire extinguisher suitable for all types of fires
4.flashlights, a portable radio extra batteries
5.blankets, clothes, shoes and money (ATMs may not work)
6.baby and pet food
It's also a good idea to decide beforehand how where your family will reunite if separated during
a quake and to conduct in-home practice drills. You might choose an out-of-the-area friend or relative
that family members can call to check on you.
During an earthquake
If you are indoors, stay there. Get under and hold onto a desk or table, or stand against an interior
wall. Stay away from exterior walls, glass, heavy furniture, and stay away from windows and outside
walls and do not use the elevator.
If you are outside, get into the open, stay into the open, stay away from buildings, power lines or
anything else that could fall on you.
If you are driving, move the car out of traffic and stop, avoid parking under or on bridges or
overpasses. Try to get clear of trees, light posts, signs and power lines.
If you are in a crowded public place, avoid panicking and do not rush for the exit. Stay low and cover
your head and neck with your hands and arms
After an earthquake
If the phone is working, only use it in case of emergency. Likewise, avoid driving if possible to keep
the streets clear for emergency vehicles.
Be aware that items may fall out of cupboards or closets when the door is opened, and also that
chimneys can be weakened and fall with touch. Check for cracks and damage to the roof and foundation
of your home.
Listen to the radio for important information and instructions. Remember that aftershocks, sometimes
large enough to cause damage in their own right,generally follow large quakes.
If you leave home,leave a message telling friends and family your location.
1.Which of the following items is unnecessary to prepare before an earthquake?
A. batteries
B. Cash
C. Medicine
D. Credit card
2.When an earthquake comes,you should ______.
A. hide yourself in the kitchen
B. rush for the exit immediately
C. stay away from heavy objects
D. call the police right away
3.When an earthquake is over,you should______.
A. drive a car to take your family to the safe place
B. check the security of your home
C. call your relatives to tell them you are safe
D. clear up the mess as soon as possible.
4. Which of the following sentences is true according to the passage?
A. You'd better make it clear how and where your family will reunite if separated during a
quake after the quake happens.
B. If you are indoors, get into the open.
C. If you are in a crowded public place, avoid panicking and do rush for the exit.
D. If the phone still works, only use it when necessary.
5. What does the underlined word "aftershock " mean?
A. A less serious quake following a large earthquake in the same area.
B. A further reaction following the shock of a deeply disturbing thing.
C. A mess one has to deal with after a terrible thing.
D. An instruction the government gives to solve problems.
