Earthquakes

Earthquake damage can extend for miles from the epicenter of these traumatic shifts in the earth's crust, resulting in collapsed buildings, bridges and overpasses; cracked roadways; downed power lines; broken gas lines; fires; explosions; and landslides. Earthquakes at sea can trigger tsunamis that crash into and devastate islands and coastal areas.

TERMS TO KNOW

• Aftershock - An earthquake of lesser intensity that occurs after the main earthquake.
• Epicenter - The point on the earth's surface directly above the focus of the earthquake.
• Fault - A fracture in the earth's crust.
• Seismic Waves - Vibrations that travel out from the fault at hundreds of miles per hour. These waves are the leading cause of damage in an earthquake.

PREPARING YOUR HOME

• Secure major appliances to both the floor and wall.
• Move large objects and breakable items to lower shelves.
• Fasten pictures and mirrors securely to walls.
• Install flexible pipe fittings to minimize breakage of gas and water lines.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

• If you are inside a building, stay there.
• Hide under a table or desk, or crouch in a corner or against a wall. Use a doorway for shelter only if you know it is strongly supported.
• Stay away from windows and bookcases.
• If you are outside, stay there, but away from power lines, buildings and anything else that can fall.
• If you are in a vehicle, stay inside it but park in a safe place. Avoid stopping on bridges, near buildings or trees, or under overpasses and power lines.

AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

• Be cautious- aftershocks can further damage weakened structures.
• Stay off the streets.
• Tune to radio or TV for the latest emergency information.
• Check your home for structural damage. If in doubt, call a qualified professional to inspect it.
• Inspect water pipes and electrical lines at your house.
• Check appliances and utilities. If you smell gas, open a window and leave, then call the gas company. Shut off the main gas vavle.
• Open cabinets carefully.