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The Clackamas County Disaster Management Department is dedicated to minimizing the impact of natural and human-caused events. Here are some of their recommended actions to take to best prepare yourself for an earthquake:
- Sign up for the Public Alerts notification system
You can receive emergency notification for your home or any other address (such as a business). You will only be contacted when the associated address is affected by an emergency. - Develop a disaster plan
Confusion and worry will take hold after an earthquake. It's best to develop a disaster plan ahead of time so that your family knows what to expect and where to meet, who will be a mutual family contact out of state, how to detect hazards in your home, how best to prepare for sheltering-in-place, and many more essential tips. - Kits! Kits! Kits!
One of the most important aspects of earthquake preparation is developing kits so that your family is taken care of. Putting a little bit of effort now into kit development can prevent very trying hardships later. Check out Disaster Management's Earthquake webpage for more on kits. - Know your area
There are many online tools now available to you which provide a quick analysis of how an earthquake will affect your immediate area. By plugging your address into Oregon Public Broadcasting's Aftershock website, you can see the predicted intensity in your area, the estimated recovery time for the community, and tips on how to prepare. - Conduct an earthquake home hazard hunt
Do you have a big-screen television? Is it strapped down? What about large pictures or paintings? Bookcases and shelving? Water heaters? It is essential to safely secure heavy objects inside your house so that they don't fall on anyone. Check out what to look for according to FEMA. - Know your gas/water shutoff points
In a disaster, gas leaks and water breaks are possible. Know where you can shut these off in your house or apartment, if you sense a rupture.
Check out Disaster Management's webpage or earthquake page for more information. And be sure to follow the department's Facebook page and Twitter feed to receive helpful tips throughout the year or get information in times of a disaster.