Earthquakes.GS
Shake it Baby!
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USGS Earthquakes USGS Real Time Maps Powerful EarthquakesLargest Recorded Earthquake Learning Center
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Earthquakes Shake Terribly and It's Not Your Fault.This site is purely informational. We aim to create a place where seismologists, geophysicists, geologists, and the general public can exchange ideas.. Please send contributions to admin@earthquakes.gs |
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Earthquake SafetyAn earthquake can strike at any time. You may be sleeping, eating breakfast, or driving on the freeway. It is important to be prepared because, when it happens, it may be too late. What kills most people is their house falls in on them. This is especially true for non reinforced masonry structures. If you live in an old rock or brick home, you should be careful. In addition, a heavy clay or tile roof will make your home a lot more likely to fall down. Hide in Doorways or Under TablesBecause things tend to fall down, get under a table. If you can't get under a table, use a doorway, because that area is reinforced for stability and it isn't likely that something will fall on you. You should locate the safe areas in your earthquake plans. That way you can get their in a split second without thinking when the time comes. If you are outside, stay there and away from buildings. If you go outside, stay away from buildings. Many people get killed when they walk outside and debris falls on them. Secure Items to WallsYou don't want lights falling down or bookcases to fall over. Make sure all your furniture is secure to the wall studs or bolted to the floor. Turn Off Gas and WaterA big problem with earthquakes is that gas lines burst and fires result. You need to know how to shut gas lines and water lines off. You should also have and know how to use a fire extinguisher. The Tokyo fire burned over 300,000 homes. Fire is often a big problem when a major strike occurs. 72 Hour KitShould your home get destroyed and you survive, it will be nice to have a 72 hour kit. In this kit, you will want to put all your essentials to stay alive for at least three days. You need to keep in mind that it may take a few days for personnel to get help to you. A big part of the 72 hour kit is the communication system. It is a good idea to have a radio that works without batteries and some walkie talkies. Each member of the family should have their own walkie talkies and know what channel to use. Trapped SurvivorsIf you get trapped, it is a good idea to know how to whistle loudly. You might carry a whistle on you for this purpose. The whistle can also be used as a security against attackers and as a coach. After the EarthquakeAfter the earthquake, check for gas leaks, electrical system damage, and for water and sewer line damage. Be careful about lighting a match. You may have an unknown gas leak. If you live near the ocean, be aware of tsunamis. After the quake, you may need to get to high ground. Finally, you should be aware that aftershocks will come. They may come in the first few hours, weeks, days, or months. Some aftershocks, although smaller, can pack a real punch. For further information, please visit http://www.fema.gov/hazard/earthquake/index.shtm. To see how to make a 72 hour kit, please visit http://www.waynecounty.com/mygovt/emd/72hourkit.aspx
Works Cited (Fema and Boy Scouts of America)
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