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 Recent earthquakes in Puerto Rico and the
Caribbean are perfect examples that earthquakes can happen anywhere
and at any time, including while you are at work, at home or on
vacation. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that
500,000 detectable earthquakes occur in the world each year. The
National Earthquake Information Center (NEIC) locates about 20,000
earthquakes each year, or about 55 earthquakes each day.
Records indicate Illinois, and several other states in the central
United States, experienced some of the largest earthquakes ever
measured in North America. In recognition of the earthquake risk
still posed today by the New Madrid and Wabash Valley seismic zones,
the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and local emergency
management agencies will promote earthquake preparedness throughout
February.
“Creating an environment of education, awareness and preparedness
will save lives in Illinois,” said Alicia Tate-Nadeau, Acting
Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. “While we
cannot predict when the next major quake will occur, we can help
people learn how to protect themselves and reduce damage to their
homes.” Learning how to “Drop, Cover and
Hold On” can help people prevent injury during an earthquake. The
phrase reminds people to drop down to the floor, take cover under a
sturdy desk, table or other furniture, and hold on to that object
and be prepared to move with it until the shaking ends. Most
casualties result from falling objects and debris caused by the
earth shaking. [to top of second
column] |
There are several steps people can take to help prevent injuries
and property damage at home, including:
• Strapping water heaters and large appliances to wall studs
• Anchoring overhead light fixtures
• Fastening shelves to wall studs and securing cabinet doors with latches
• Strapping TVs, computers and other heavy equipment to prevent tipping
• Learning how to shut off gas, water and electricity in case the lines are
damaged
Each year the Illinois Emergency Management Agency leads an initiative to
register homes, businesses, schools and organizations in the world’s largest
earthquake drill. This year’s earthquake drill will take place on Thursday,
October 15 at 10:15 a.m. It’s never too early to register your participation in
this potentially life-saving event. Register today at
www.shakeout.org.
Learn more about how you can prepare your home, business and family for an
earthquake at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.
[Illinois Office of Communication and
Information]
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