There is no such thing as “earthquake weather.” Statistically there is approximately an equal distribution of earthquakes in cold weather, hot weather and rainy weather. Earthquakes are natural disasters that come without much warning – if any. According to the California Integrated Seismic Network, warning times can be anywhere from a few minutes to just seconds.
Although earthquakes can happen anywhere, National Geographic has found that these states have the highest risk:
Alaska Arkansas California Hawaii
Idaho Illinois Kentucky Missouri
Montana Nevada Oregon South Carolina
Tennessee Utah Washington Wyoming
Earthquakes vary in magnitude and can cause fires, damaged roads, collapsed buildings, tsunamis, landslides, avalanches and serious injuries. Even if you do not live in a high-risk area, you should be prepared for any natural disaster.
The Before
If you live in a high-risk area, there are measures you can take to prepare your home and family for an earthquake. Have a professional come out and make the necessary structural or foundational improvements to your home. Make sure there are no problems with your water pipes, gas or electrical service. Be sure to know how to turn off the gas and water mains in your home.
You should place any heavy objects and breakable items on lower shelves. Secure furniture to the floor; lock or remove the furniture wheels on items that have them. You should also store flammable and chemical products securely in closed cabinets and trim any loose or hazardous tree limbs.
Have you made an earthquake emergency plan? If not, you need to create one. You and your family should practice dropping to the floor, taking cover and protecting your head and neck with your arms.
You should also have a supply kit with canned food, a first aid kit, gallons of water, dust masks, goggles, a battery-operated radio, batteries, flashlights, a fire extinguisher, cash, medication and pet supplies if needed. It is also a good idea to put your important documents in a safe box and keep your gas tank at least half full in case of an evacuation.
The During
When the earthquake strikes, drop to your knees, find cover, protect your neck and head with your arms and hold onto something secure once the shaking begins. Be sure to stay away from unbolted furniture and windows. If you are in a bed, put your face down and cover your neck and head with a pillow.
If you are in a high-rise building, do not use the elevators and do not panic if the sprinklers and fire alarms activate. If you are in a vehicle, pull over and park. If you are outside, stay outside and away from buildings, trees, power lines and signs. For those in a wheelchair or have a walker with a seat, remain seated and try to cover your neck and head until the shaking stops.
The After
Once the earthquake is over, check to see if anyone around you is hurt. Leave the damaged building and go outside to avoid insecure structures.
If you are trapped, protect your mouth, nose and eyes from dust and debris. Call 911 and make loud noises or whistle to help rescuers find you.
While you are inspecting the damage or cleaning up your home, please wear protective gear. Be sure to check thoroughly for any hazards, shut off the water if you find broken pipes. Turn off the electricity if there are wires sparking. Shut off the gas if you notice a leak. If your home feels unsafe, leave the house immediately and seek help from the professionals.
Continue to listen to the news or receive cellphone alerts in case there are any aftershocks or other natural disasters.
Picking up the pieces after an earthquake is always difficult, but if you are proactive, you will be more prepared for the unexpected.
R.C. Keller & Company has protected the residents of Schaumburg and the surrounding areas since 1910. We are here to protect your home, auto, life and business. Stay safe!