Historical October 1990 earthquake supplement. Original predictions, insurance prices and safety guidance are reproduced as period reporting, not current forecasts or instructions.
We who live on the New Madrid Fault are hearing a lot about the big one.” The odds of survival are greatly in our favor, if we are prepared.
The following tips will help.
Before an Earthquake: • Family members separated during the day need to plan what they will do, where and how to meet. Mental preparedness is part of good preparation. • Assemble in an accessible place what you need to live for up to two weeks without gas. electricity, water, sewer, phone. Camping equipment makes a good start. • Prepare your home to sustain damage: Place loose, heavy objects near floor or tie to wall. Secure or frame in your hot water heater, best source of drinking water, so it can’t fall over. Install plywood in attic beneath chimney to catch falling bricks. Make copies of important documents. • Keep a supply of cash on hand in case banks are closed for a time. • Keep additional supplies at work and in your car(s).
During an Earthquake: • Keep calm, so you can think clearly. Quakes can take from a few seconds to minutes. Aftershocks are common. • Get under a sturdy table, desk or interior doorway. Watch for falling debris and breaking glass. • Outdoors, watch for falling pieces of building. trees and power lines. • In your car? Stay there! Drive away from large collapsible structures.
After the Earthquake: • Wear sturdy shoes; check for injuries, apply first aid. • Check for damage to gas, water, electrical and sewage lines. Smell gas? Turn it off at main line, and open windows. Know how to turn off electricity and water, too. • Do not go sightseeing. Instead, turn on your battery radio for public safety instructions. • If faucets still work, disinfect water. • Get to your supplies; if power is off, use refrigerated food before it spoils. Suggested Supplies (H-Home; C-Car: W-Work) H,C,W Batteries (store in refrigerator) H,C, Flashlights.portable radios. blankets,medications H,C Fire extinguisher, first aid kit H Pipe wrench; misc. tools H.C.W Food (dry and canned) H.C,W Water (bottled) 4-7 gals. per person and bleach H Can opener, disposable plates. utensils H,C large trash bags (for garbage and waste) H,C.W Emergency phone numbers C,W Extra clothing, shoes Of course an earthquake can be devastating, but its effect on us or our families’ need not be. Let’s work together on being prepared.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, October 1990.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1990_10.pdf, printed page(s) 3; PDF page(s) 3.
