Earthquake Safety Tips

Although we live in a placid area of the country when it comes to earthquakes, that does not mean that earthquake safety should be neglected. Two of our very own classmates experienced an earthquake in California over winter break, suggesting that everyone regardless of their geographic region should know the basic earthquake safety tips. I have omitted the obvious ones because I have faith in your intelligence. After writing this, I see that Sarah has also done a great post on this topic. You can never have enough safety information in my opinion!

1. If you are indoors during an earthquake, do not immediately run outside! The danger of immediately going outside is being hit by a falling object. Crouch under a strong and steady object and wait until after the ground motion has stopped.

2. Leave the building no matter what afterwards. There may appear to be no damage but there may be underlying cracks and collapses not visible to the eye.

3. Keep in mind that after an earthquake you may not get cellular reception for quite awhile. Do not panic! The phone lines are very busy. When I was in California during an earthquake, I couldn't call home to tell them I was okay for almost an hour.

4. Turn off any major appliances. Turn off the gas at the meter if possible.

5. Remain calm! As destructive as earthquakes are, they are apart of our beautiful blue planet!

http://geology.com/articles/earthquake-safety.shtml