Red Cross: be ready for earthquakes

In the wake of an earthquake early on the morning of Jan. 23 that shook much of Southcentral Alaska and points west, the Red Cross of Alaska issued a reminder to residents of the importance of being prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis.

Here are their top tips to keep in mind:

Earthquakes:

  • Remember: Drop, cover and hold.
    • If you are inside when the shaking starts, drop, cover and hold onto something sturdy.
    • Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit.
  • Download the Red Cross Earthquake app to learn more and get information about building an emergency kit. The free Emergency App is available in app stores for smartphones and tablets by searching for the American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/apps.

Tsunamis:

  • Find out if your home, school, workplace or other frequently visited locations are in tsunami hazard areas.
  • If you are in a coastal area and feel an earthquake that lasts 20 seconds or longer:
    • Drop, cover and hold on. You should first protect yourself from the earthquake.
    • When the shaking stops, gather members of your household and move quickly to higher ground away from the coast. A tsunami may be coming within minutes.
  • What do I do after a tsunami?
    • Continue using a NOAA Weather Radio or tuning to a Coast Guard station or a local radio or television station for the latest updates.

Full earthquake safety checklist:

https://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4240216_Earthquake.pdf

Full tsunami safety checklist:

http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4340167_Tsunami.pdf

Video:

Preparedness: Earthquake Safety – Drop, Cover and Hold On:

https://youtu.be/TLbOwmSadr4

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