Earthquakes are one of those unpredictable disasters that can take hundreds if not thousands of lives in an instant.
To mitigate the destruction it can cause, the government has launched several disaster response efforts people can rely on before, during, and after an earthquake.
Among those are websites and online directories the public can access to search for evacuation centers, resources, and loved ones.
Here are just some of the few essential websites people can visit in the unfortunate incident of an earthquake:
Also Read: 5 Useful, Practical Gadgets to Have During an Earthquake
DisasterAssistance.gov
Preparedness is the key to safety. In this case, the US government's Disaster Assistance website is the best bet in the event of a calamity or disaster.
The website provides detailed instructions on what to prepare before an earthquake, and what to do during one, and provides free directories to use for relief and recovery efforts.
It even has a fact sheet users can download ahead to use to learn more about disaster response, including which agencies and authorities to contact.
HUD Resource Locator
The Department of Housing and Development also provides survivors with necessary directions on where to go for resources needed for survival.
The website locator is regularly updated so people can access it anytime to see where the government and partner organizations set up relief centers for affected residents.
American Red Cross
If you need to call a loved one or a family member to ensure their safety, the American Red Cross has set up the "Contact Loved Ones" initiative to get help in reaching out to others during disasters.
Red Cross' contact desk is always active and ready to respond in time of need.
It can even be used if "your missing loved one or friend and you resided in the same home prior to the current disaster event but became separated as a result of evacuations or other circumstances."
The website has a dedicated team for immediate response, and assistance for military families, and non-English communities.
Go Direct
The last featured website is more useful after an earthquake rather than during it but still is an essential assistance during this kind of disaster.
Go Direct is a government effort to help people gain access to their finances in an instant from anywhere they are via electronic transactions.
Money is one of the important items needed for food, clothing, and transportation after an earthquake. The presence of Go Direct is sure to help people through a flexible transaction method.
Residents just need to confirm their identity to the 24/7 active response desk to redirect their digital money to their devices.
Related Article: MyShake App Warns 95,000 California Residents Before an Earthquake Hit
