Being prepared for an earthquake is the key to saving lives and property. Get some good advice by selecting from among the following categories:

Emergency Services.  Various government agencies help the public cope with the effects of an earthquake.

• FEMA.  Go here to learn more about disaster assistance programs administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
• OES.  The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services coordinates earthquake preparedness, response and recovery efforts in California. This site also has useful safety suggestions for homes, schools and businesses.
• Seismic Safety.  The California Seismic Safety Commission helps speed earthquake recovery by developing and monitoring risk mitigation programs.

Homeowner Information.  Check these sites to learn how to make your home a more quake-safe place.

• PG&E.  The Bay Area’s utility company offers safety and emergency information, including instructions on how to brace a water heater and turn off the gas.

Survival Strategies and Supplies.  It’s never too soon to prepare safety plans and disaster kits for your family. These sites make it easier to do.

• Red Cross.   The American Red Cross presents worthwhile safety information, including directions on how to make a home earthquake plan and a disaster supplies kit.
• Epicenter.  Search the Emergency Preparedness Information Center for disaster preparedness tips and products.

Most of us realize how important it is to have a disaster kit at home. But it’s equally important to have a smaller kit in your car. Here’s a list of items for a 24-hour disaster kit that will fit in an easy-to-carry box or bag. You should have a kit like this, plus no less than a half-full tank of gas, whenever you drive in the Bay Area. Remember, the Loma Prieta earthquake happened during rush hour.

Most of us realize how important it is to have a disaster kit at home. But it’s equally important to have a smaller kit in your car. Here’s a list of items for a 24-hour disaster kit that will fit in an easy-to-carry box or bag. You should have a kit like this, plus no less than a half-full tank of gas, whenever you drive in the Bay Area. Remember, the Loma Prieta earthquake happened during rush hour.

1. Food and water.  Include non-perishable, high-energy food. Water should be in plastic containers. Think about who could be with you when an earthquake happens and pack enough for everyone to last 24 hours. And don’t forget the special needs of infants and persons with restricted diets. Replace the food and water in your kit twice a year.
2. Sanitation supplies.  Include an adequate supply of toilet paper and necessary personal hygiene products. Also include some paper towels and a small bottle of liquid soap or anti-bacterial lotion. Plastic storage and garbage bags that zip or tie closed are useful to collect waste. These bags can serve other purposes, too–for example, a garbage bag can be made into a rain poncho.
3. Flashlight with batteries.  Having fresh batteries is important. Remember to check them twice a year.
4. Sturdy clothing.  You could be forced to climb over debris after an earthquake, so pack a pair of work gloves. You should also have strong shoes with good soles. Be sure to put a pair in your kit if you often drive wearing high-heels, lightweight dress shoes or sandals.
5. First-aid supplies.  At a minimum, include latex or plastic gloves, antiseptic and an assortment of adhesive bandages. A small package of your favorite over-the-counter pain relief medicine may come in handy, too. If someone needs prescription medicine, be sure to pack enough for at least 24 hours.
6. Blanket.  Most sporting goods stores stock inexpensive, insulated emergency blankets that fold to be smaller than your hand.
7. Emergency addresses and phone numbers.  List the addresses and phone numbers of several neighbors and of the people you designated as emergency contacts on your child’s school forms. With your family, decide on a person living outside the Bay Area to be an emergency contact and put that person on the list. And don’t forget the phone number of your insurance agent.
8. Pen and paper.  It may be necessary to write down information or to leave written messages. You might also include a bright marker so your notes will attract attention.
9. Money.  Pack at least $50 in cash. Don’t include extra bank or credit cards. You may not be able to use them if the electricity is off. Plus, you run the risk of having them stolen if the kit is in your car.
10. Stress-busters.  Include things that will help relieve tension and pass the time. Some ideas: a pack of gum; hard candy or lollipops; a deck of cards; small travel games for the kids.