Earthquake Preparedness Worksheet

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Reading Worksheet — Elementary (C) | tahricteaches.com

An earthquake happens when the ground shakes. The shaking can be short or long. Some earthquakes are small, and people do not feel them. Other earthquakes are big, and they can break buildings and roads. Taiwan has many earthquakes every year because it sits near big plates under the earth.

During an earthquake, it is important to stay safe. Do not run outside. Get under a strong table and hold on to the table legs. Stay away from windows because windows can break. Protect your head and neck with your arms until the shaking stops.

Every family needs an emergency kit. Put the kit in a backpack. Keep supplies like water, food, and a first aid box inside. Try to have enough water for three days. A flashlight is also important because the power can go out after a big earthquake.

Families should also make a plan. Choose a safe shelter place outside your home. Everyone should know where the exit doors are and practice walking to them quickly. Talk about this plan together so children know who to call for help.

Schools and offices do a drill every year to help people practice what to do. When the alarm rings, stay calm and follow your teacher or leader. Remember: drop, cover, and hold on. You can also practice a drill at home with your family. Being ready can save lives during a real earthquake.

A. Vocabulary

earthquake ____
shake ____
safe ____
emergency ____
kit ____
supplies ____
shelter ____
drill ____
flashlight ____
exit ____

a. sudden shaking of the ground
b. way out of a building or room
c. small light you hold and carry by hand
d. to move quickly up and down or side to side
e. things people need, like food, water, or medicine
f. place that protects people from danger
g. sudden, dangerous situation that needs fast action
h. set of useful things kept together for a purpose
i. practice exercise for what to do in an emergency
j. not in danger; protected from harm

B. True or False

____ An earthquake is a shaking of the ground.
____ All earthquakes are very big and dangerous.
____ You should run outside during an earthquake.
____ It is a good idea to get under a strong table during an earthquake.
____ Windows are a safe place to stand during an earthquake.
____ An emergency kit should have water and food in it.
____ A flashlight is not useful during an earthquake.
____ Families should choose a safe shelter place outside their home.
____ Schools never practice earthquake drills.
____ Staying calm during a drill is important.

C. Fill in the Blanks

Word Bank: earthquake, safe, emergency, kit, flashlight, shelter, drill, exit

The ground shook during the ___.
Get under a table to stay ___.
Every family needs an ___ plan and supplies.
Put water and food in your ___.
Use a ___ to see in the dark when the power is out.

D. Comprehension Questions

What should you do if you feel the ground shaking?
Why is a flashlight an important item for an emergency kit?
What is one thing families can do to prepare for an earthquake before it happens?