An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by shifting of deep rocks and tectonic plates underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause immense damage to not only buildings, roads, and bridges, but they can also cause fires, tsunamis, landslides, or avalanches. They can happen anywhere without warning, but there are areas at higher risk for earthquakes including Oregon, Washington, California, and Alaska. One of the biggest dangers from an earthquake is the after shock, which is a smaller earthquake that follows the main shock, and can bring down buildings that were damaged from the main shock. It’s important to stay where you are, covered and protected, until after the after shock has occurred.
Some prevention practices you can do to prepare your home for an earthquake include securing heavy items like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, tv, and objects on the walls. Store heavy or breakable items on lower shelves. Consider improving your home’s safety by fixing structural issues that weaken the building. While earthquakes can occur with very little or no warning, it is always important to make and practice an emergency plan with your family to stay safe during an event.
Make an emergency plan:
- Create a family communication plan that includes an out-of-state contact and a location of where to meet if separated.
- Make a supply kit that includes enough food, water, first aid kit, and necessary medications for at least 5 days for each family member and pet.
Safety tips during an earthquake:
- Protect yourself right away, try to get underneath a table for cover.
- If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
- If you are in a car, pull over and stop.
- If you are outdoors, stay away from buildings and power poles and keep an eye on any taller trees around you that may fall.
- If you are inside, quickly find something to duck under and hold onto, and avoid doorways. Follow the Drop, Cover, and Hold on steps wherever you are.
After the earthquake:
- There are additional hazards that follow the initial shock such as damage to the building, leaking gas or water pipes, or downed power lines.
- If you are in a damaged building, go outside and away from the building.
- If trapped, make noise or send a text for help.
- If you are in a high tsunami risk area, quickly go to higher ground inland.
- Once you are safe, register yourself on the Safe and Well website to let people know you are okay.