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AAA Urges Home Preparedness, Offers Driving Tips for Earthquakes

7 October 1999

Free Earthquake Safety Tips in 9 Languages; AAA Urges Home Preparedness, Offers Driving Tips for Earthquakes

     News Editors/Transportation Writers

	    SAN FRANCISCO--Oct. 7, 1999--On the tenth
anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake, AAA urges Californians to
be earthquake prepared and offers free brochures available in nine
languages.
	    "How well you, your family and your home get through an
earthquake often depends on how well you prepare beforehand," said AAA
spokesman Paul Moreno.
	    A major earthquake could hit at any time, and the U.S. Geological
Survey predicts that the San Francisco Bay Area -- with its 11 faults
-- will be struck by at least one major earthquake within 30 years.
	    Free "Prepare for the Quake" brochures are available from AAA
offices in the Bay Area and coastal areas. Brochures are available in
English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Laotian, Cambodian,
Korean and Armenian.
	    The brochure was produced by the Governor's Office of Emergency
Services and AAA. Established nearly 100 years ago, AAA offers a wide
array of automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. The
California State Automobile Association serves nearly 4 million
members and is the second largest regional affiliate of the national
AAA organization. CSAA offers earthquake insurance for homeowners
through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA).

	    Note to Editors: Please see attached "Earthquake Preparedness
Tips."
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                  AAA's Earthquake Preparedness Tips

	    Preparing:

--   Prepare an emergency kit of food, water and supplies, including a
     flashlight, battery-operated radio, batteries, medicines, first
     aid kit, money and clothing.

--   Know the safe spots in each room -- under sturdy tables, desks or
     against interior walls.

--   Know the danger spots -- near windows, mirrors, hanging objects,
     fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.

--   Conduct practice drills so you and your family know the safe
     locations in your home.

--   Decide how and where your family will reunite if separated during
     a quake.

--   Choose an out-of-state friend or relative that separated family
     members can call after the quake to report their whereabouts and
     conditions.

--   Learn first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

--   Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in case the
     lines are damaged. Keep an adjustable wrench or pipe wrench
     handy. (Do not attempt to relight the gas pilot. Call the utility
     company.)

--   Check chimneys, roofs, walls and foundations for stability. Make
     sure your house is bolted to its foundation.

--   Secure your water heater and major appliances, as well as tall,
     heavy furniture, hanging plants, picture frames and mirrors
     (especially those over beds).

--   Keep breakables, heavy objects, flammable or hazardous liquids
     (paints, pest sprays and cleaning products) in secured cabinets
     or on lower shelves.

--   Organize your neighborhood to be self-sufficient after a quake.

	    During an earthquake:

--   If indoors, stay there. Get under a desk or table, or stand in a
     corner.

--   If outdoors, get into an open area away from trees, buildings,
     walls and power lines.

--   If driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid
     overpasses and power lines. Stay inside your car until the
     shaking is over.

--   If in a high-rise building, stay away from windows and outside
     walls. Get under a table. Do not use elevators.

--   If in a crowded public place, do not rush for the doors. Crouch
     and cover your head with your hands and arms.

	    After an earthquake:

--   Unless there is an immediate, life-threatening emergency, do not
     attempt to use the telephone.

--   Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least three days.

--   Check for gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring or sewage
     lines. If there is damage, turn the utility off at the source.
     Immediately report gas leaks to your utility company. Check for
     downed power lines; warn others to stay away.

--   Check your building for cracks and damage, including the roof,
     chimneys and foundation.

--   Turn on your portable radio for instructions and news reports.
     For your own safety, cooperate fully with public safety officials
     and follow their instructions.

--   Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the
     streets clear for emergency vehicles.

--   Be prepared for aftershocks.

--   Stay calm and lend a hand to others.

--   If you evacuate, leave a message at your home telling family
     members and others where you can be found.