Earthquakes – not just in California

Saturday, 30 May 2009 00:08 Melody Avecilla

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When you think about earthquakes, you probably associate this disaster mainly with California. Truth is, an earthquake can happen anywhere in the United States and Canada. In fact, according to the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS), nine states experienced a major earthquake – 7.0 or greater – in the last 200 years: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and Washington. Another fact: The central Mississippi Valley region has more earthquakes than any other part of the United States east of the Rocky Mountains.

Which means, regardless of where you live, you may want to familiarize yourself with ways to stay safe if an earthquake strikes.

The best protection during an earthquake is to get under heavy furniture, such as a desk, table or bench. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits and alongside exterior walls. Fatalities often happen when people run outside of buildings and get hit by falling debris from collapsing walls. Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass and falling objects.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has information to help you prepare for all types of disasters, including earthquakes. Here are a few safety tips:

Check your home for hazards – make sure shelves are fastened securely to walls; large, heavy objects and breakable items are stored on lower shelves; pictures and mirrors are hung away from areas where people sit and sleep; check for defective electrical wiring and gas leaks as these pose potential fire hazards

Identify safe places in each room – under sturdy furniture; against an inside wall; away from where glass could shatter or heavy furniture might topple

Locate safe places outside – open spaces away from falling debris and electrical lines

Have disaster supplies on hand – flashlights; portable battery-operated radio; batteries; first aid kit and essential medicines; emergency food and water; hand-operated can opener; cash and credit cards; sturdy shoes

Develop an emergency communication plan – in case family members get separated, have a designated place to meet; ask an out-of-state relative to be your family contact and make sure everyone has the phone number

A little advance planning can help you and your family weather disasters of any kind more safely. And remember … earthquake damage is generally not covered by your homeowners insurance. So include your insurance agent in your planning.

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( www.asianjournal.com )

( Published on May 30, 2009 in Asian Journal Los Angeles p. C5 )

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