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