Survival Scenario: What to do in a Devastating Earthquake

Are Earthquakes Increasing

There is some evidence to suggest that earthquakes are on the rise.

Earthquakes appear to be increasing in inensity as well.  

Dates	Period	No. of Quakes with > 6.99
1863-1900	38	12
1901-1938	38	53
1939-1976	38	71
1977-2014	38	164

The earthquake could happen at any moment and the possible results could be dramatic.  The U.S. Geological Survey warned that a magnitude-7.5 earthquake along the San Andreas Fault could kill 3,000 to 18,000 people and cause up to $250 billion in damage. In contrast, a larger magnitude 8 quake along the San Andreas would cause an estimated 1,800 deaths.

Admittedly, that is not too much loss in human life--in comparative terms, but the disruption in services and economic toll could send a teetering economy into a deep recession. Approximately, 23% of the total U.S. value of goods pass through the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports.  Prices will explode as these services are disrupted and become scarce.  The market will take a heavy beating and there will be a subsequent credit crunch.  No one can know how much of a effect it will have, but if the past is any indicator of the future, it should be dramatic.   

What to do if you’re Trapped in a Building in an Earthquake 

• Drop to the floor.  This will decrease the speed you can travel, but it will help you keep your balance and prevent yourself from falling and tripping into something.

• Move under a desk and away from unsecured furniture.

• Cover you head.

• If a room fills with dirt or smoke, cover your mouth with a wet cloth.  It is important that the cloth is wet.  A wet cloth will dramatically increase the effectiveness of the covering.

• If out in the opening, get away from trees and buildings.

• Stay away from glass and windows.

• If the wall starts to cave in, get behind large furniture and lay flat.  You might end up trapped under the debris, but you won't be crushed.

• If you are trapped, try to locate a pipe that runs through the building and hit it with a solid object.  The pipe will carry the sound throughout the building and give rescuers an idea of where you are.