Earthquake Preparedness: Are YOU ready if the big one hits?

Recently Chile was hit with a devastating earthquake that spared the lives of hundreds and impacted millions. The 8.8 earthquake that rattled Chile for three minutes could be felt as far north as Peru. The earthquake also caused seiches to occur in Lake Pontchartrain to the north of New Orleans, United States. The Chilean earthquake and Haiti's catastrophic earthquake made me wonder if the "Big One" hit our area, would our family be prepared? Sure, I stocked up on can goods, water, etc. I even placed our emergency supplies in a safe and secure location. However, when I went through the items, I noticed that I forgot to put one {slightly} important thing in there... a CAN OPENER!!! Yikes! Imagine a month's supply of food and no can opener! So, I thought it might be best that I share with you some special tips and checklists that might help your family be prepared.


Please click on the following links:)

• Earthquake preparedness from FEMA
• Very important information from the USGS
• Information from the  Los Angeles Fire Department's Emergency Preparedness
• Put your own Earthquake Kit together with this handy checklist from the San Francisco Chronicle

The following are some great links for you and your kids to look over:

• From the USGS a fun-filled website with activities and games
• FEMA  for Kids: Earthquake information for specific age groups
• WeatherWiz for Kids has a colorful explanation of what an earthquake is?

Hope this information will keep you and your family safe :)