Living in Earthquake Country

(Glendale, CA)- Epicenter, magnitude, aftershock, foreshock, fault, and intensity are a few terms associated with earthquakes. An earthquake is caused by a sudden slip or rupture on a fault after a continuous buildup of pressure. The rupture begins at a point on the fault line called the hypocenter usually deep under the surface of the earth, while the epicenter is the point directly above the hypocenter that touches the ground. Earthquakes come in clusters: the largest one is called the mainshock, any movement before is called a foreshock, and anything after the mainshock is called an aftershock.

Since earthquakes are unpredictable, it is critical that you prepare a minimum of 72 hours of emergency supplies. There are seven steps to prepare for, survive, and recover from an earthquake. These steps provide actions that can keep you and your loved ones safe, reduce potential damage, and recover quickly from an earthquake.

PREPARE before an earthquake:

1. Secure your space: identify potential hazards and secure heavy furniture to the wall.
2. Create a plan: have an emergency plan and learn about hazards where you live, work, and play.
3. Prepare your disaster kits: prepare emergency supplies for a minimum of 72 hours.
4. Strengthen your home: Reinforce chimneys and secure your home to the foundation.

SURVIVE an earthquake:

1. Drop, cover, and hold on: Drop to the floor, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it firmly until the shaking stops.
2. Check for injuries and damage: Identify hazards (fire, gas leaks, broken lights, etc.) and check for bodily injuries on you and your family members.

RECOVER after an earthquake:

1. Follow your plan: Follow your plan immediately to reconnect with family and to begin to recover from the damage caused by the earthquake.

The Glendale Fire Department encourages Glendale residents to be prepared for earthquakes and all disasters. Remember to update your emergency plan and practice your plan every six months. To learn more about preparedness, please visit www.glendalefire.org.

The mission of the Glendale Fire Department is to protect life and property by providing the highest level of service to the community.  For more information about the Glendale Fire Department, go to www.glendalefire.org and follow GFD on twitter @GlendaleCAFire.