Earthquake icons represent 3 of the 15 highest magnitude earthquakes in U.S. history (excluding Hawaii and Alaska). Red dots are earthquakes in the last four months.

Hurricane Katrina and the government response taught me that, when the chips are really down, there may be times when your survival will depend solely on yourself. After a disaster you may conceivably have to fend for yourself for a week or more before you can legitimately expect help to arrive.

Are you prepared for something like that?

These tips are things FEMA says you should do to prepare before an earthquake hits:

• Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility connections. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.
• Bolt down and secure to the wall studs your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances. If recommended by your gas company, have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations.
• Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects.
• Store bottled foods, glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut.
• Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
• Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation.
• Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings are more resistant to breakage.
• Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Reinforce this information by moving to these places during each drill.
• Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover, and hold on!

Are you ready? Click here to learn what your disaster kit should include for home, work and your car.

Map source: ClimateCentral.org (interactive map)

Grants Pass Oregon It's The Climate sign seen at night