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Earthquakes are unpredictable disasters that can strike at any time. They might start with a loud noise or an alert on your device, followed by the ground shaking and moving for several minutes. The aftereffects can include continued aftershocks. This guide outlines essential steps to ensure your safety during these potentially intense events.
Although earthquakes cannot be predicted, Canada's Earthquake Early Warning system offers seconds to tens of seconds of warning post-occurrence by detecting seismic activity promptly. If you receive an alert via phone, TV, or radio, immediately act on it by dropping, covering, and holding on.
The system uses a combination of ground motion sensors, satellite data, and algorith quickly detect earthquakes and provide alerts before significant shaking occurs. This gives individuals time to take protective actions indoors.
To ensure broad awareness about how to respond during early warning periods, public education campgns are regularly conducted. These m to reach all demographics across the country, emphasizing the importance of knowing what to do when an alert sounds.
To minimize injuries and damage in your living space before seismic activity occurs:
Stable Furniture: Use L-brackets, corner brackets, or aluminum moulding to secure tall pieces like bookcases and cabinets to the walls.
Secure Decor: Move picture frames and mirrors away from resting areas such as beds and sofas.
Cabinet Stability: Use pushpull latches for cabinet doors and anchor heavy appliances like refrigerators and freezers firmly to the floor or wall with straps.
Flexible Gas Lines: For water heaters, use flexible gas lines secured by a licensed professional if necessary. Ensure access to your electrical panel, know how to shut off water, and gas services.
Evacuation Planning: Develop an evacuation plan that accounts for different scenarios, such as leaving through the front door or an alternate exit point.
To ensure safety during an earthquake:
Build Your Emergency Kit: Collect non-perishable food, water 1 gallon per person dly, and essential supplies like a flashlight, battery-powered radio, batteries, medications, and copies of important documents.
Create Grab-and-Go Bags: Prepare compact kits for each household member, including pets. Include essentials such as a first d kit, blankets, snacks, personal hygiene items, and necessary medication.
Drop, Cover, Hold: If indoors, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck with your arms or use a desk or sturdy table for protection.
Exit Safely: If you're in a high-rise building, stay away from elevators. Avoid windows and exterior walls if possible.
If you remn safe:
Stay Informed: Monitor local news and updates for information on safety zones and the status of essential services.
Assess Damage: Carefully inspect your property for structural issues before entering or using damaged areas.
Communicate: Stay in touch with family members, neighbors, and fris to share status updates.
Insurance Coverage: Discuss earthquake coverage with your insurer; most policies cover damage and losses. Contact the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 1-844-227-5422 for guidance.
Financial Assistance: Note that Disaster Financial Assistance is not avlable for earthquake-related losses.
By taking proactive steps to prepare both physically and mentally, you can mitigate risks and ensure a safer experience during earthquakes. Stay informed, have an emergency plan in place, and ensure your home meets safety standards before disaster strikes.
This article is reproduced from: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/earthquakes-tsunamis/earthquakes
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