NEPTA NEWS
15 EARTHQUAKES OVER 4.0 WITHIN THE LAST 30 DAYS IN NORTH AMERICA 12/2/2018
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How often do you think earthquakes occur within a year? Most would guess only a few, the few, being the ones that they can recall from the news. According to the United States Geological Survey “On average, Magnitude 2 and smaller earthquakes occur several hundred times a day worldwide. Major earthquakes, greater than magnitude 7, happen more than once per month. “Great earthquakes”, magnitude 8 and higher, occur about once a year.” Big or small, earthquakes are something we should all be aware of and prepared for.
Quick, what are the first 3 things you should do in an earthquake? We hope you didn’t think, run for cover. In the event of an earthquake, you should; Drop, Cover, Hold On. These are 3 very simple, but commonly forgotten steps. When disaster strikes, especially one that is unexpected, all logic goes out the window. That is is why it is important for you and your family to properly prepare, to prevent and protect. A simple training with your family every 6 months can be the difference between life and death.
We’ve seen disaster after disaster strike and the number of families that aren’t prepared for such disasters is startling. Do you have a relative out of the state to assist on call, when the time is needed? Do you have an emergency plan set, in the event your family is not together when disaster strikes? Do you have safe shut cabinets or your electronics mounted to the wall? We hope you answered yes to all because these are the simple questions. If not, better late than never because we’re here to help!
Quick Tips:
- Have an earthquake readiness plan
- Consult a professional to learn how to make your home sturdier, such as bolting bookcases to wall studs, installing strong latches on cupboards, and strapping the water heater to wall studs.
- Locate a place in each room of the house that you can go to in case of an earthquake. It should be a spot where nothing is likely to fall on you, like a doorframe.
- Keep a supply of canned food and/or dried food, an up-to-date first aid kit, 3 gallons (11.4 liters) of water per person, dust masks and goggles, and a working battery-operated radio and flashlights in an accessible place.
- Stay away from windows. In a high-rise building, expect the fire alarms and sprinklers to go off during a quake
- If you are in bed, hold on and stay there, protecting your head with a pillow.
- If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines. Drop to the ground.
- If you are in a car, slow down and drive to a clear place. Stay in the car until the shaking stops.
REFRENCE: http://ds.iris.edu/seismon/eventlist/index.phtml?region=N_America
