Words of Wisdom from SharLeigh

EARTHQUAKE SURVIVAL TIPS

During the month of January, the city of Fontana had a 4.4 earthquake. The Richter Scale measures the seismic waves of ground movement during an earthquake. An earthquake of a 4.0 magnitude is equal to 1,000 tons of explosives going off. Each number on the Richter Scale is magnified by 10 – in other words, a 4.0 earthquake produces ground motion that is 10 times greater than a 3.0 earthquake. Unfortunately, there is no early warning system for earthquakes, so it is always wise to be prepared. Here are some simple tips.

BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE: (At Home) Have a battery-powered radio, flashlight and first aid kit. Make sure everyone knows where they are stored. Know the location of your electric fuse box and the gas and water shut-off valves. Fasten heavy furniture and appliances. Most important, plan for reuniting with your family after the earthquake. (At School or Work) Urge your school board and teacher to discuss earthquake safety in the classroom and have drills. Find out if your workplace has an emergency plan and what your responsibilities are.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE: (At Home) Stay calm – if you are indoors remain indoors; if outdoors remain outdoors. If indoors, stand against a wall near the center of the building or get under a table. Stay away from windows or outside doors. Don’t use candles, matches or other open flame objects. (At School or Work) Get under desks, facing away from windows. If on the playground, stay away from the building. If on a school bus, stay in your seat until the driver stops. If in a car, stop away from overpasses and bridges and remain inside until the shaking is over.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE: (At Home) Check family for injuries – provide first aid if necessary. Check water, gas and electric lines. If damaged, shut off valves. If there is a gas odor, open windows and doors, shut off meter and get away from the structure. Use battery-powered radio for information. Do not flush toilets – sewer lines maybe damaged. Stay away from damaged buildings and chimneys. (At School or Work) Follow emergency plans. Always use stairways for evacuation. Do not go into damaged buildings. Stay away from beaches where tsunamis could strike. Expect aftershocks – they may cause additional damage.