Studies have shown that more than 1 million earthquakes occur each year, but nearly 90 percent of those quakes are too weak to be recorded. An earthquake can be a very scary experience, which can shake buildings, damage structures, and even generate a tsunami.
If you happen to live in an area, which experiences earthquakes frequently, you should always be prepared for the worst.
Each earthquake can vary in strength and can range in magnitude. The average earthquake ranges from 2.5 to 5.4, which will usually only cause minor damage, but a slightly larger quake, such as a 6.0 can lead to significant structural damage. Major earthquakes, such as a 7.0 magnitude earthquake are rare but can cause serious damages, which is why it’s always better to be prepared. Although most earthquakes only last 10 to 60 seconds, it feels like an eternity. An earthquake can strike suddenly, which can lead to injuries and damages. If the area you live in is potentially subject to earthquakes, it’s important to learn how to properly prepare and recover from an earthquake.
Learn How to Prepare for an Earthquake
The worst part about an earthquake is how unpredictable they are, which can occur unexpectedly at any time with little to no warning. If or when the next big one hits, it’s always better to be prepared.
You should first gather your family and create a plan and prepare an emergency earthquake preparation kit. The preparation kit should include medical supplies, portable handheld radio, food, water, and a flashlight, along with extra batteries. You should also take a moment to educate your family on how to prepare for an earthquake which includes turning off the gas/electricity and what department to contact incase of an emergency. You should also develop an emergency communication plan in case your family suddenly becomes separated during or after the quake, such as a relative or family friend. You should also check for any potential hazards in your home.
An earthquake is powerful enough to shake the earth, which means it can easily, which can quickly reduce your home to ruble. You may want to consider strengthening your home’s foundation or investing in earthquake insurance. Earthquake insurance will protect your home in case of a disaster, but your insurance rate will depend on several factors including your location and home’s age, which may require a 20% deductible.
While preparing for an earthquake, you should first make sure your home is safe and secure. You should make sure the selves in your home are fastened securely to the walls, store breakable items in low-cabinets, hang pictures and mirrors away from beds, reinforce light fixtures, and secure the water heater by making sure it’s securely fastened to the floor. You should also consider repairing any defective wiring and/or cracks in the ceiling, which can lead to structural failure.
Before an earthquake strikes, you should identify safe spots in each room of your home to shelter yourself during quakes. You should take shelter against a wall, away from windows, or under heavy furniture. If you experience an earthquake outdoors, It’s always a good idea to take shelter in the open, which means away from buildings, electrical lines, and trees.
Recovery
Preparing for an earthquake is one thing, but the recovery process is a whole different situation. Once the dust finally settles and it’s safe to move around, you should first check and make sure no one is injured. After you make sure everyone is safe and sound, you should then try and get to a safe location. You should also prepare yourself for any potential aftershocks, which can cause additional damages. Once the coast is clear, you should then take a moment and assess any property damages, which include electrical damage, collapsed entryway, and gas leaks.
