Tuesday, February 4, 2014

How Will You Survive?

 Here are some GREAT earthquake tips provided by The Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists!



Preparation!
Survey your home or workplace and secure fixtures such as lights, ceiling tiles, cabinets, electrical wiring, gas appliances, and top heavy objects to resist moving, coming loose, or falling during the shaking.

Have on hand:
1.       A flashlight and battery-powered radio in case you lose power. 
2.       A supply of drinking water and nonperishable foods that can be prepared without cooking.
3.       A fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

Develop a family work plan which addresses what to do if the earthquake occurs while family members are at home, school or work. Discuss where and how contact should be made and where to meet.

Practice your plan . Hold drills so each member of your family knows what to do in an earthquake. Teach responsible family members how to turn off electricity, gas, and water at main switches and valves.


What To Do During an Earthquake?

Stay calm. This is one of the most important things to do. Thinking through the consequences of any action you take will save your life. Do not make any rash decisions, stay put and wait for help.

Stay put. If you are inside, stay inside. If you are outdoors, stay there. Most earthquake injuries occur when entering or leaving buildings.

Take cover . If indoors, or in a school follow the schools safety protocol, take cover under a heavy desk, table, bench, a supported doorway, or along an inside wall. Stay away from glass. Don't use candles, matches, or other open flame during or after the tremor because of possible gas leaks. Douse all fires.

If outdoors, move away from buildings and utility wires.  Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops. If in a moving car, stop as quickly as safety permits, but stay in the vehicle. A car may shake violently on its springs, but it is a good place to stay until the shaking stops.



After the earthquake!
After the earthquake essential services may be out for a few days. The use of telephones will probably be impaired for some time. If your phone is working, it would be best not to burden the lines with unnecessary calls.

Be prepared for additional earthquake shocks called aftershocks. Although most of these are smaller than the main shock, some may be large enough to cause additional damage or topple weakened structures.

Check for injuries . Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Turn on your radio or television to get the latest emergency information from local authorities.

Check your utilities . The earthquake may have broken gas, electrical, and water lines. Open windows and shut off the main gas valve, electrical meter box, and water supply value if damaged. Emergency water may be obtained from hot water tanks, toilet tanks (not bowls), and melted ice cubes.






IMPORTANT NUMBERS:

Charleston County Emergency Preparedness: 843-202-7400

Charleston Co. Sheriff: Call 911 for emergencies only!


References:
1886 Charleston Earthquake Walking Tour
The Charleston Earthquake Tour
Earthquakes in SC
Earthquake GIF
Emergency GIF

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