Earthquake Safety Consumer Information

THE EARTHQUAKE POTENTIAL

THE PROBLEM
The probability for an earthquake of magnitude 6.0 or greater in the central U.S. is fairly significant in the near future, with a 25-40% chance of occuring in any 50 year time period.  A quake with a magnitude equal to that of the 1811- 1812 quakes could result in great loss of life and property damage in the billions of dollars.

Scientists believe we could be overdue for a large earthquake and through research and public awareness may be able to prevent such losses. By learning about the potential earthquake hazards in your area and by taking certain preparedness measures now, you can survive an earthquake and minimize its dangerous and damaging impact.

THE DANGER
The actual movement of the ground in an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most casualties result from falling objects and debris which is a result of the earthquake shaking. The duration and amount of shaking associated with an earthquake as well as the age and construction type of a structure greatly determines the amount of damage that may result. Older structures built with little or no seismic design will be the first structures to be tested by an earthquake.

Earthquakes can also cause secondary effects such as fires, liquefaction and landslides. Earthquake-related injuries are commonly caused by:

• Portions of a buildings and their contents falling, such as toppling chimneys, falling bricks and roof parapets, collapsing walls, falling ceiling plaster, light fixtures, overturned bookcases, fixtures, and other furniture and appliances and pictures.
• Partial collapse from older structures or poorly design ones.
• Flying or falling glass from broken windows. (This danger may be greater in modern high-rise buildings.)
• Fires caused by broken gas and electric lines, or spilled flammable liquids. The danger may be aggravated by the lack of water due to broken water mains.
• Fallen Power lines. 6.Human panic reactions, such as crowds stampeding for stairways or exits.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

There are many actions you can take to reduce the danger from earthquakes to yourself, your family, and others. Use the links below to find out more about what you can do.  Follow this link to download a family emgergency communications plan *(500K)