Free Earthquake Worksheets | Editable Templates - Free Printable

This worksheet is designed to test knowledge about earthquake safety. Below, I will provide detailed answers for each section of the worksheet.

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Before an Earthquake

#### 1. Identify Safe Zones
- What are the safest places in your home, school, or workplace during an earthquake?
- Under sturdy furniture like a heavy table or desk.
- Against an interior wall away from windows, bookshelves, or hanging objects.
- In a doorway if no other shelter is available.

- List at least three potential hazards to avoid:
- Windows (risk of shattered glass).
- Tall furniture that could fall over.
- Hanging objects like mirrors or shelves that could fall and cause injury.

#### 2. Emergency Kit
- What items should you include in an earthquake emergency kit?
- Water (at least one gallon per person per day for several days).
- Non-perishable food and a can opener.
- First aid kit with essential medications.
- Flashlight and extra batteries.
- Whistle to signal for help.
- Dust mask to filter contaminated air.
- Multi-purpose tool or knife.
- Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance papers).
- Cash and coins.
- Blanket or sleeping bag.
- Change of clothes and sturdy shoes.

- Why is it important to have a communication plan in your emergency kit?
- A communication plan ensures that family members know how to contact each other in case they are separated during an earthquake.
- It helps coordinate meeting points and updates on everyone's safety.
- Having a designated out-of-town contact can be crucial since local phone lines may be busy or down.

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During an Earthquake

#### 1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
- Explain the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" procedure:
- Drop: Get down to the ground before the earthquake knocks you down. This reduces the risk of being hit by falling debris.
- Cover: Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture or against an interior wall. Protect your head and neck with your arms.
- Hold On: Hold onto your shelter until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with your shelter if it shifts.

- Why is this important during an earthquake?
- Dropping and covering protect you from falling objects and structural damage.
- Holding on ensures that you stay close to your shelter, which provides the best protection.
- This technique minimizes the risk of injury from flying debris and collapsing structures.

#### 2. Staying Safe Indoors and Outdoors
- What should you do if you are indoors during an earthquake?
- Stay inside and take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Avoid windows, tall furniture, and hanging objects.
- If you are in bed, stay there and protect your head with a pillow.
- Do not use elevators.

- What actions should you take if you are outdoors when an earthquake occurs?
- Move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
- Avoid areas with overhead hazards like signs or streetlights.
- If driving, pull over to a safe location and stop the car. Avoid stopping near bridges, overpasses, or power lines.
- Once the shaking stops, proceed cautiously, as aftershocks may occur.

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After an Earthquake

#### 1. Check for Injuries
- Enter Questions here
- Are there any injuries among family members or coworkers?
- How severe are the injuries, and what first aid is needed?
- Should emergency services be called?

#### 2. Utilities and Building Safety
- Enter Questions here
- Are there gas leaks? (Smell for gas or listen for hissing sounds.)
- Are there electrical hazards, such as downed power lines or damaged wiring?
- Is the building structurally sound, or are there cracks or damage that could pose a danger?
- Should utilities (gas, water, electricity) be turned off to prevent further damage?

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Final Answer Summary

The completed worksheet would look like this:

Before an Earthquake
1. Identify Safe Zones
- Safest places: Under sturdy furniture, against interior walls, in doorways.
- Hazards to avoid: Windows, tall furniture, hanging objects.
2. Emergency Kit
- Items: Water, food, first aid kit, flashlight, dust mask, multi-tool, documents, cash, blanket, clothes.
- Importance of communication plan: Ensures family coordination and safety updates.

During an Earthquake
1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On
- Procedure: Drop, cover under furniture, hold on.
- Importance: Protects from falling debris and structural damage.
2. Staying Safe Indoors and Outdoors
- Indoors: Take cover, avoid windows, stay away from tall furniture.
- Outdoors: Move to open areas, avoid buildings and power lines.

After an Earthquake
1. Check for Injuries
- Questions: Assess injuries, provide first aid, call emergency services if needed.
2. Utilities and Building Safety
- Questions: Check for gas leaks, electrical hazards, structural damage, and turn off utilities if necessary.

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Final Answer:
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