Earthquake Preparedness, Oct. 18

Crustal earthquakes are regular occurrences in Oregon. They are generally small and low-impact and can cause significant localized damage while the threat of a Cascadia Subduction Zone quake is a geologic hazard that will affect the entire state. On average, Cascadia quakes occur every 300 years and are caused by the shifting of geologic plates in the Cascadia subduction zone.  Emergency management agencies and other organizations across the state have worked with communities to share information and promote preparedness. The best protective action anyone can do during any type of earthquake is to “Drop. Cover. Hold on.” Most injuries are caused by falling debris or being thrown to the ground. On Thursday, October 18, people worldwide will practice how to “Drop, Cover and Hold On” as part of the Great ShakeOut annual earthquake drill. It’s your chance to be one in a million – or one of a half million! Currently more than 520,000 Oregonians have pledged to participate in the Great Oregon ShakeOut. Join us at 10:18 a.m. on Thursday, October 18, as we “Drop, Cover and Hold On.” Register today and check out some great earthquake preparedness resources. “Earthquakes are just one of the natural hazards we face in Oregon,” says Althea Rizzo, geologic hazards awareness program coordinator at Oregon’s Office of Emergency Management. “We also experience winter storms, wildfires and flooding. Experience has shown that in the aftermath of large disasters – consider the recent earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia or Hurricanes Maria and Florence – personal preparedness is critically important. The Great ShakeOut is a safe and fun way to practice what to do when seismic activity occurs.” Oregon Governor Kate Brown has declared October 18, 2018, “Great Oregon Shakeout Day.” The proclamation encourages participation in the ShakeOut and urges Oregonians to be 2 Weeks Ready.  “We know that a Cascadia Subduction Zone quake and tsunami could leave large areas of our state without resources for days and weeks,” says Rizzo. “Having 2 weeks of food, water and other emergency supplies is critical for individuals and families who may need to take care of themselves until formal response resources can reach them.”