The best time to prepare for a disaster is before the disaster occurs. While bad things will happen in a disaster there are mitigation steps that you can take to prevent or reduce the effects of the disaster. For example, an earthquake will shake the ground causing everything to move. Injuries and damage could be minimized in objects are secured to prevent them from falling. Here are some simple mitigation steps that can help minimize the effects of a disaster:

• Securely anchor heavy furniture
• Secure (strap) water heater
• Have flexible gas lines
• Install a Northridge valve on gas line
• Bolt house to foundation
• Install hurricane straps to secure roof
• Strap and secure propane tanks
• Secure mobile home to its slab
• Have ample fire extinguishers
• Have fire blankets in garage and kitchen