|
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are caused by underground volcanic
forces or by breaking and shifting of rock beneath the surface. This
causes ground shaking that affects, people and buildings. Although
considerable progress has been made toward developing the science of
earthquake prediction, techniques for making precise predictions of
earthquakes do not yet exist. Therefore, family preparedness before an
earthquake, knowing what to do when an earthquake strikes, and planning
what you will do after an earthquake will contribute to saving lives,
reducing injuries, and minimizing damage.
The actual earth movement of an earthquake,
disconcerting as it is, seldom is a direct cause of death or injury. The
earth movement, however, can cause buildings and other structures to
shake or collapse. Most casualties result from building damage and
falling objects and debris, splintering glass, and fires.
Before
an Earthquake...
* Conduct a review of possible structural or
non-structural hazards in your home and undertake actions to lessen
injuries and damages.
* Store water and non-perishable food ahead of time
and in a safe place.
* Be sure to have flashlights and extra batteries
stored and easily accessible.
* Establish evacuation and communication plans for
your family at home, school, or work when the earthquake strikes.
* Establish an emergency contact person outside
your state as a means of being able to reunite your family.
* Become familiar with those persons in your
immediate neighborhood who may have special needs, are physically
challenged, have hearing or vision impairments so that you may notify
them of impending disaster or offer assistance in the aftermath.
During
an Earthquake...
* Keep calm. Don't run or panic. If you take proper
precautions, the chances of you being injured may be reduced.
* Stay where you are. If outdoors, stay outdoors
and move away from buildings and utility wires. If indoors, stay indoors
and seek cover. Most injuries occur as people are entering or leaving
buildings.
* If the earthquake occurs when you are indoors,
take cover under a desk, table, bench, or against inside walls or
doorways. Stay away from glass, windows, and outside doors.
* DO NOT use candles, matches, or other open flames
either during or after a tremor. Use flashlights. Douse all fires.
(continued on other side)
During
an Earthquake... (continued)
* Don't run through or near buildings. The greatest
danger from failing debris is just outside doorways and close to outer
walls.
* If you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly
as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle. A vehicle may jiggle on its
springs during an earthquake, but it is a good place to stay until the
shaking stops. When you drive, watch for hazards created by the
earthquake, such as fallen or failing objects, downed electric or
telephone wires, or broken or undermined roadways.
After
an Earthquake...
* Check for injuries. Don't attempt to move
seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of future
injury.
* Check utility lines and appliances for damage. If
electric wiring is shorting out, shut off the current at the main meter
box.
* If water pipes are damaged shut off the supply at
the main valve. Emergency water may be obtained from such sources as hot
water heaters, toilet tanks, and melted ice cubes. However, storing
emergency supplies of water beforehand is suggested.
* Check to see that sewage lines are intact before
permitting continued flushing of toilets.
* Check chimneys for cracks and damage. Unnoticed
damage could lead to a fire. The initial check should be made from a
distance. Approach chimneys with great caution.
* Stay out of severely damaged buildings.
Aftershocks can shake buildings down and cause death or injury.
* Do not heed or spread rumors. They often do great
harm following disasters. Stay off the telephone, except to report an
emergency. Turn on your radio or television to get the latest emergency
information.
* Don't go sightseeing. Respond to requests for
assistance from police, fire fighting and relief organizations, but do
not go into damaged areas unless your assistance has been requested.
Cooperate fully with authorities.
* Be prepared for additional earthquake
aftershocks.
* Earthquakes pose a special threat to those who
live downstream of dams. A severe tremor could result in dam collapse
and flooding.
* Assist your neighbors in need if you can do so
without jeopardizing your own safety.
For more
information on earthquakes, contact
The
Colorado Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program (CEHRP)
Dept. of
Earth Resources, Natural Resources Building
Colorado
State University
Ft.
Collins, CO 80523
1-800-842-9414
|
