The Great Shakeout earthquake scenario will occur at 10 a.m. Thurs., Nov. 13. Thousands of residents will be away from home when the scenario happens. Just as planning for a disaster at home is important, everyone should plan for his or her safety away from home.

•At school—Most public schools in Los Angeles have developed comprehensive disaster plans and are well-equipped to take care of children. When an earthquake strikes, let the schools and first responders do their job. Parents can become part of the problem when they add to traffic gridlock by driving to the schools, parking in areas impeding first responders and trying to collect children before everyone is accounted for. All parents should know their children's school's plans for disasters and adhere to their instructions.

•At work—Any business that intends to stay in business after a disastrous earthquake should make sure that the owner and top managers weave preparedness into the company's daily activities. This includes reviewing insurance coverage, shelter safety procedures, an emergency contact list, a list of inventory and equipment, backing up files and preparing individual employees. The building's potential hazards, weaknesses and utilities should be noted.

Other decisions should be made, such as what key equipment will be needed to carry on, is a generator needed to keep things going and where to set up if temporarily evacuated. Personal disaster supplies, including water, food and first-aid kits, should be stocked up, as well as equipment. Drills and evacuations should be planned. Practice ducking under heavy desks, moving away from windows, going toward interior walls and protecting heads with arms.

For more information, visit www.ShakeOut.org/businesses or www.ready.gov.

•In the car—Pull over to a clear space on the side of the road but avoid being on or under bridges, overpasses, ramps and near power lines. Stay in the vehicle with a seat belt on until the shaking stops and then proceed with caution.

In the Great Shakeout scenario, it is assumed that damage to vehicles and obstructions on roadways will lead to a massive gridlock. Drivers may have to remain in their cars for severahours and, in some cases, abandon them to walk home or get to a disaster shelter. Drivers should use their car's AM radio to obtain information about the extenof damage and instructionsCarry a backpack with waterwalking shoes, flashlight, flares or fire extinguisher, a blanketbook and food. •In a store or mall—Do norush to an exit when the shaking starts. Move away from windows and display shelves where objects can fall. Shoppers should get under a solid table if possible or move next to a solid wall and use their arms to protect their head. Remain calm and, if the store's security personnel instruct, exit after the shaking stops.

•Outdoors—Move to an open area away from trees, signs, buildings or downed electric wires and poles. Those on city streets should duck into a doorway to avoid falling glass and debris. At the beach, move to higher ground, as earthquakes can trigger tsunamis.

•Traveling—Those in bed at a hotel should stay put, hold on and cover their neck and head with a pillow. While out of the area, residents should have worked out with one or two neighbors to check their home, and give them permission to turn off gas and utilities if necessary.