Preparing for Earthquakes: Join the Great ShakeOut in Washington State
Washington state experiences approximately 1,000 minor earthquakes annually, prompting the need for preparedness. The Great ShakeOut event, occurring on October 17, encourages residents to practice safety measures such as drop, cover, and hold on. To prepare effectively, individuals are urged to sign up for alerts, create go bags, and develop comprehensive action plans for various locations. Awareness of current safety protocols is crucial in mitigating risks associated with earthquakes.
WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Residents of Washington state are frequently reminded about the potential threat of significant earthquakes, particularly those who were present during the 2001 Nisqually Earthquake. While the exact timing and occurrence of a major seismic event remain uncertain, it is important to note that the state experiences approximately 1,000 minor earthquakes yearly, primarily located on the western side of the Cascades. Many of these tremors are negligible and go unnoticed; however, it is vital to prepare for the possibility of a more serious quake. An effective way to enhance earthquake preparedness is by participating in the Great ShakeOut, which is observed annually on the third Thursday of October. This event encourages participants worldwide to practice the crucial steps they should take during an earthquake, namely: dropping to the ground, taking cover under sturdy furniture to protect the head and neck, and holding on until the shaking ceases. According to the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, earthquakes can vary in duration from just a few seconds to several minutes, often followed by aftershocks as the earth stabilizes post-event. This uncertainty prompts the need for proactive preparedness. In anticipation of this year’s Great ShakeOut on October 17, individuals are advised to take the following three steps to improve their readiness: 1. Sign up for alerts and warnings: – Utilize MyShake to receive notifications about nearby earthquakes. – Register with Konexus AlertSense to get updates from Emergency Management regarding disasters and evacuations. 2. Assemble a “go bag”: This should contain essential items for immediate needs after an emergency, including: – Spare clothing and outerwear – Necessary medications – Non-perishable food and sufficient water – A battery-operated radio, mobile phone, and charger – Cash and critical documents. 3. Develop a comprehensive plan of action for various locations frequented, such as one’s workplace, vehicle, and home. For further insights into the ShakeOut drill, resources are available online in both English and Spanish, and for additional information on earthquake risks in Washington, the state’s emergency management page serves as a valuable resource. Echoing past practices, individuals may recall being advised to stand in doorways or evacuate outside during tremors. Current guidelines, however, advocate for the method of drop, cover, and hold on to mitigate risks associated with such movements. Amy Cloud serves as the Public Information Officer for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management. With a background in communications and news production, she holds an extensive history of service within local media and governmental organizations, enhancing community preparedness initiatives.
Earthquake preparedness is an essential public safety concern in regions susceptible to seismic events, particularly in states like Washington, which is prone to a high frequency of earthquakes. The Great ShakeOut event serves as a preventive measure to educate residents on emergency responses, emphasizing the critical steps that should be taken during an earthquake. Historic earthquakes, such as the Nisqually Earthquake, have heightened awareness and reinforced the need for residents to be adequately trained and equipped to handle potential seismic disasters.
In conclusion, as Washington state grapples with the persistent threat of earthquakes, participating in preparedness initiatives such as the Great ShakeOut is crucial. By receiving timely alerts, assembling essential emergency supplies, and formulating a strategic response plan, individuals can significantly increase their safety during potential seismic events. Emphasizing current best practices over outdated recommendations further enhances community resilience against the unpredictable nature of earthquakes.
Original Source: mybellinghamnow.com
