Be Prepared BEFORE a Tsunami strikes:
- Know the tsunamii history and flooding elevation of you area
- Learn the location of nearest shelter/safe area
- Learn the safe route to shelter
- Have on hand emergency supplies for at least 3 days
- Keep your emergency supplies in a backpack near your door
- Know how to turn off your utility mains
- Get basic first aid instruction
- Have family discussion about tsunamis and evacuation plans
When a tsunami WATCH is issued for your area:
- This means a dangerous tsunami has not yet been verified. If one exists, it may only be one hour away
- Frequently monitor radio, Coast Guard emergency frequencies, NOAA Weather Radio, or other reliable source
- If you live in a low lying area carefully check your emergency supply kit. Especially remember any special medicine, infant needs, warm clothing, water and cash.
- Locate family members and review evacuation plans
- If you have special evacuation needs (handicapped, elderly, small children), consider early evacuation.
- Only consider taking your boat to deep water if time, weather, and its seaworthiness permit
- Secure important loose objects around your home/business, if time permits
- Make ready to evacuate
When a tsunami WARNING is issued for your area:
- This means a dangerous tsunami may have been generated and could be very close. Estimated times of wave arrival will be given.
- If on the beach near the shoreline: If you feel a very strong earthquake, evacuate to higher ground immediately. DO NOT wait for a formal warning.
- If a tsunami is verified, the warning is extended to all Pacfic coastlines: Closely monitor radio, Coast Guard emergency frequencies, NOAA Weather Radio, or other reliable source.
- Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered to do so. Remember your emergency kit.
- Never go down to the beach to watch for a tsunami
- Turn off your electric and gas service at the main, only if time permits. Do not use the telephone except in a genuine ermergency
- Once in a safe area, do not return to the hazard zone until a competent local official has issued an ALL CLEAR condition
- All tsunamis, like hurricanes, are potentially dangerous even though they many not damage every coastline they strike
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