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An earthquake is basically caused when two plates or pieces of rock underneath the earth's surface break and shift. Actually, an earthquake can occur anywhere. But, historically, in the United States, Alaska has the most earthquakes in a calendar year. Behind Alaska in its number of seismic disturbances is the state of California. However, the worst earthquakes have occurred in California.
If you're going to move to Alaska, California, or any other state that is prone to having these seismic disturbances, you can help to protect yourself and your family. As with any other type of natural disaster, being prepared is your best defense.
The first, and most important order of defense you can take, is to move into a house or apartment that has been built to withstand earthquakes. This type of building has a reinforced foundation. The added support helps the building to stay standing during the shaking of the earth.
The second thing is to have a disaster plan in place for you and your family. Remember this advice: teach your family that when a seismic disturbance happens, they should immediately follow the "Drop, Cover and Hold" maneuver if they are indoors. Teach your family to seek a clear spot, away from buildings and other structures, if they are outside when an earthquake occurs.
The "Drop, Cover, and Hold" maneuver means that a person should immediately drop down to the floor, cover and protect their head with their hands and arms, and hold that position until the shaking stops. Just like having fire drills, you should practice earthquake drills with your family two to three times every year.
Here's some more useful advice: part of your disaster plan should also include a communications system for your family. No matter where each of you is, you'll want to be reassured that they're all okay after an earthquake occurs.
So, establish some sort of plan where they can call you to check in. Or, maybe you could establish a plan where everyone in the family calls home and leaves a message on the family answering machine.
Establish a system that's best for you and your family so you all can have peace of mind.
You and your family will also need to know where the shut off valves are for your utilities.
The third thing is to keep a fresh supply of water and nonperishable food somewhere in your house. If you have a baby, then store some baby formula or food, and some extra diapers in your food supply too. And, don't forget Fido or Kitty! They'll need food too!
You should also keep a small first aid kit with your supply. At least one person in your family should learn basic first aid and CPR, just in case it's ever needed.
You'll also need some flashlights, extra batteries, a radio that runs on batteries, and some blankets.
And finally, the last bit of advice is to anchor down furniture so that it doesn't fall over in the event of an earthquake. Furniture and other items falling over is a leading cause of injury during a seismic disturbance.
You should use long bolts to secure armoires, china cabinets, chest of drawers, grandfather clocks,
dressers, and other tall, heavy pieces of furniture to the wall. Be sure that you screw the bolts into wall studs.
Don't forget to secure items in your basement too, such as your hot water heater.
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