https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNN7eDXzlMo

Earthquake Magnitude

How big is big? What is the difference between a 3.0 and a 6.0 earthquake? How about the difference between a 6.0 and an 8.0? Is there really that much of a difference? As you can see in the excellent video above, there is a very big difference.

earthquake preparedness

What can I do to Prepare?

The first step is to realize that earthquakes can and do happen all around the world. They are a part of our lives. This is what has shaped our planet. I don’t live where there are earthquakes you may think. That may be true on some levels, but is it a reality? The supply chain we utilize for water, electricity, natural gas, food, etc. all pass through and are dependent on infrastructure that is in areas where earthquakes can occur. It will take time to get these services up and running even though you may be a long way away from the epicenter of the earthquake. Remember, earthquake magnitude plays a part here as well. Earthquake magnitude 7, 8, & 9 don’t occur every year, decade, or sometimes century. Many of the cities we live in were not even in existence the last time we had an earthquake of those magnitudes. Many areas will feel the shaking that they have never felt before.

Emergency Supplies

The emergency supplies you will need during an earthquake are not unlike the supplies you need for many other emergencies. You should have food, water, sanitation, communication, and medical supplies at hand to deal with most emergencies including earthquakes. Knowing how to use all of these supplies are important. Speak with you neighbors, first responders, civic and church groups in your area that can help. Realize you may be on your own for an extended period of time. Far too many people rely on the local, state, and federal government to take care of them in an emergency. We must all realize, the government cannot get things set up fast enough to take care of all of us. We need to take personal responsibility to take care of ourselves. Sure the government will be able to help after a few days, but lets be part of the solution, don’t add to the problem.

Home Safety Survey

We have created a home safety survey called MyIntel to help you prepare for emergencies. Use the free version to find out your vulnerabilities. Then, upgrade to the paid version to find out what you can do to improve your situation.

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