General Preparedness Steps (from King County)

Have and practice a family disaster plan. Establish meeting places and phone numbers in case family members are separated. Identify an out-of-state contact to call during a major disaster or emergency; it will be easier to call out of the area if local lines are tied up. Make sure everyone knows when and how to call 9-1-1. Keep your disaster supply kits up to date. Make sure you have kits for your home, vehicle, work and school. Get a tone-alert NOAA Weather Radio to receive emergency notifications and up-to-date information and instructions. Teach all family members when, where and how to turn off utilities. Make sure you have the appropriate equipment, such as a wrench, handy. Make sure you understand the emergency plans and expectations at your child's school and your work. Preplan alternate transportation routes to and from work and other important destinations. Be sure to keep at least a half-tank of gas in your vehicle at all times; power outages often accompany disasters and gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps. Know ahead of time what you should do to help family, friends or neighbors who are elderly or have special needs. See earthquake for more info:  http://www.kingcounty.gov/safety/prepare/residents_business/Hazards_Disasters/Earthquakes.aspx