Earthquake Safety Advice
EARTHQUAKE SAFETY ADVICE
(Matthew Hurtes, Emergency Management Specialist, Unified Fire Authority)
Information about earthquake preparedness and what to do when an earthquake happens does not have to be confusing. Experts agree that if you are indoors, seek shelter under a sturdy table or piece of furniture. Falling objects are the largest hazard in an earthquake.
Here are some reasons why, and the actions to take to preserve yourself:
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STRUCTURALLY SOUND: As the result of strong design, municipal codes and construction standards, buildings in the U.S. have a structural integrity that makes collapse a rarity.
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ACT FAST: In an earthquake, you have 3 to 4 seconds to act to protect yourself. "DROP. COVER. HOLD." Protect your most vulnerable parts - your head, neck and chest by getting under cover and/or covering your head with your arms. Falling causes many earthquake injuries.
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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: We live in earthquake country. Drill your family and work team to "DROP. COVER. HOLD.", or there's less than a 10% chance that you'll do it, in those critical 3 to 4 seconds.
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MITIGATE: Half of all injuries have "non-structural causes" - meaning the stuff you have, not the building you're in. Look around your home and office. If something fell, would it:
a. Hurt someone?
b. Block an exit?
c. Keep you from doing business?
d. Break your heart if it broke?
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