GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE: How to help Bay Area earthquake victims

GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE: Residents around the Bay Area are cleaning up after the region suffered its strongest earthquake in more than 25 years -- many homes, roads and businesses have been damaged.

HOW TO HELP:

Community Action Napa Valley

Community Action Napa Valley runs child care centers, food banks, a senior center and meals-on-wheels programs as well as shelters. They were hit hard by the quake and as first responders, they need your help.

Volunteer Napa

Volunteer Napa's Recruitment and Referral program provides a single point of contact to mobilize Napa Valley's community members, local businesses, and non-profits in both good times and in times of disaster. To learn how to join and help, click here.

American Red Cross

You can also help people affected by disasters like earthquakes in California by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The Red Cross reports that two shelters are open for those affected by the quakes at Crosswalk Community Church at 2590 First St. in Napa and Florence Douglas Center at 333 Amador St. in Vallejo. Some 30 families and 83 people are staying at the Crosswalk Community Church. Pets of displaced residents may be taken to the Napa County Animal Shelter, 942 Hartle Court in Napa, for care while staying at the shelter.

PHOTOS: Earthquake damage around the Bay Area

As a result of Sunday's earthquake, local agencies are recommending the following safety precautions be taken:

• Check for damage, especially to utilities, foundation, walls, and chimneys.
• If you smell or hear leaking gas, open your windows and get everyone out of the building right away. Turn off gas at service (if residential) and notify PG&E immediately. Customers can contact PG&E at www.pge.com or call 1-800-PGE-5002.
• If you smell smoke, get everyone out of the building. Use a fire extinguisher to put out small fires. Don't use water on electrical or gas fires.
• Inspect your home's foundation, walls, and chimneys. Look and listen for any signs of possible collapse.
• Please be patient if your power is out. Utility providers are working to restore services. For more information or assistance please contact PG&E.
• If you are experiencing low water pressure or interrupted water service please contact your local water provider.
• Aftershocks could be possible.
• If the shaking starts again, protect yourself by staying away from windows and taking cover in a door frame or under a sturdy piece of furniture.
• If you are outdoors, stay in the open away from buildings, bridges, signs and overhead wires.
• Remain calm and do an assessment of those in your building and on your block if it is safe to do so.