Earthquake Safety

An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes strike suddenly, without warning, and they can occur at any time of the year, day or night. Forty-five states and territories in the United States are at moderate to very high risk of earthquakes, and they are located in every region of the country, including ours.

Many residents were surprised in early September to feel REAL earthquake tremors in our area, including objects falling off the walls, beds shuddering and literally the ground moving beneath their feet.  Reports show a 5.8 earthquake hit northern Oklahoma and was felt over most of the Midwest. Yes, this can happen to us. 

At 10:20 a.m. on October 20, 2016, millions of people will “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” in The Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, the region’s largest earthquake drill ever.  Everyone is encouraged to participate in the drill wherever you are at 10:20 a.m. on 10/20.

Major earthquakes may happen anywhere you live, work, or travel. The ShakeOut is our chance to practice how to protect ourselves, and for everyone to become prepared. The goal is to prevent a major earthquake from becoming a catastrophe for you, your organization, and your community.

So, what are you supposed to do in case of an earthquake?  In a nutshell, “Drop, Cover and Hold On.”

If you are inside when the shaking begins:

Drop, cover and hold on.  Move as little as possible.

If you are in bed, stay there, curl up and hold on. Protect your head with a pillow.

Stay away from windows to avoid being injured by shattered glass.

Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit.  If you must leave the building after the shaking stops, use stairs rather than an elevator in case there are aftershocks, power outages or other damage.

If you are outside when the shaking starts:

Find a clear spot and drop to the ground.  Stay there until the shaking stops (away from buildings, power lines, trees and street lights.)

If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible.  Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.  Then, drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps that may have been damaged.

If a power line falls on your vehicle, do not get out.  Wait for assistance.

If you are in a mountainous area or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rocks and other debris. 

Why is a “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drill important? To respond quickly you must practice often. You may only have seconds to protect yourself in an earthquake before strong shaking knocks you down, or something falls on you.

At the very least, have a discussion with your family about what you would do in case of an earthquake.  Remember kids count on adults to know what to do in case of emergency.  Be ready with an answer!

Source: The Great Central US Shakeout and American Red Cross