Earthquakes

Just recently a major earthquake has hit Japan, and just last year four major earthquakes of 6.4 and above hit on or near Haiti, Chili, Japan, and Taiwan. Usually earthquakes over 5.0 or above are rare and only happen every few or more years. What do you think can be predicted of any upcoming earthquakes and what might be causing them? Also, how could you prepare for any earthquakes that could affect you?