Amy Cloud highlights the significance of earthquake preparedness in Whatcom County, Washington, ahead of the Great ShakeOut on October 17. With thousands of minor quakes occurring annually, Cloud urges residents to participate in the drill by practicing safe actions and preparing emergency supplies. By signing up for alerts, creating a ‘go bag’, and developing action plans, individuals can better safeguard themselves during an earthquake.
In Whatcom County, Washington, Amy Cloud, the Public Information Officer for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, emphasizes the importance of earthquake preparedness in her discussion on the upcoming Great ShakeOut event. Although the region has not experienced a significant quake recently, Washington records approximately 1,000 minor earthquakes annually, primarily occurring on the western side of the Cascades. Cloud stresses that the absence of destructive earthquakes does not negate the need for preparedness. The Great ShakeOut, scheduled for October 17, encourages residents to practice essential safety measures that should be taken during an earthquake. Participants are reminded to drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops, as recommended by the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network. To better prepare for such events, Cloud suggests individuals take three proactive steps leading up to the Great ShakeOut. First, residents should sign up for alerts and warnings such as “MyShake” for nearby earthquakes and the “Konexus AlertSense” for emergency notifications. Secondly, she recommends assembling a “go bag” tailored for immediate needs following a disaster, which should include clothing, medications, food, water, communication devices, and essential documents. Lastly, residents should develop a comprehensive action plan for various locations they frequent, including home, workplace, and vehicles. Additionally, Cloud notes the evolution of safety practices, indicating that the previous advice to stand in a doorway or evacuate during an earthquake is outdated and potentially hazardous. The safest procedure, she asserts, remains to drop, cover, and hold on.
Earthquake preparedness is critical in regions like Washington, which, despite being prone to minor tectonic activity, can also experience significant seismic events. The Great ShakeOut is an annual drill aimed at educating residents on the essential actions to take during an earthquake. The event fosters community awareness and promotes safety measures that can mitigate the impact of potential disasters. With evident geological risks, understanding how to prepare and respond effectively is paramount for residents’ safety.
In conclusion, the need for earthquake preparedness is vital, particularly in areas like Whatcom County that experience numerous seismic events annually. The Great ShakeOut serves as an essential opportunity for locals to practice life-saving techniques. By preparing through alerts, assembling emergency supplies, and planning for various scenarios, residents can enhance their resilience against potential seismic hazards. Furthermore, it is crucial to adopt the recommended safety measures to ensure personal and community safety during an earthquake.
Original Source: kpug1170.com
