Earthquake Readiness

November 17, 2011

There was an earthquake in Oklahoma last Saturday, November 5th. I know! For some people, this may come as a shock, but others are well aware of the occurrence, as it could be felt even into Kansas City. It registered as 5.6 on the Richter scale, which makes it the strongest earthquake to hit the area in recent times. For a full report on the earthquake and its scale, you can visit the United States Geological Survey website.

I felt the earthquake from my cozy little home in the Metro area. About the time that I was looking around and seeing everything shaking slightly, all I could think was something along the lines of "AHHHH!" Later, I would reflect that I probably should have been thinking something more constructive, at which point I realized that I knew absolutely nothing about earthquake safety.

This is why I have made it my mission to share what I have learned. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides an excellent website with information on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake (as well as other natural disasters). However, here is a brief summary of what you should do if you find yourself surprised by an earthquake in your own home:

1. Don’t panic.
2. Take cover immediately under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on.
3. Don’t try to leave the building.
4. Don’t panic. Things will stop shaking eventually.

Heather G.
Oak Grove Branch