Amy Cloud highlights the significance of earthquake preparedness in Washington as the state experiences around 1,000 earthquakes yearly. With the Great ShakeOut event approaching on October 17, residents are encouraged to participate in safety drills that emphasize the drop, cover, and hold strategy. Preparatory actions recommended include signing up for emergency alerts, assembling a ‘go bag’ with necessary supplies, and formulating clear action plans for different locations.
In a recent discussion, Amy Cloud, Public Information Officer for the Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, emphasizes the importance of earthquake preparedness in Washington state, particularly highlighting the upcoming Great ShakeOut event scheduled for October 17. Many residents may not realize the frequency of seismic activity in Washington, with approximately 1,000 earthquakes occurring annually, predominantly on the western side of the Cascades. Although most of these tremors are minor and often go unnoticed, preparation remains essential due to the unpredictable nature of significant earthquakes. Cloud recommends participating in the Great ShakeOut as a practical step in disaster readiness. This global drill encourages participants to practice key safety measures: dropping to the ground, taking cover under sturdy furniture, and holding on until shaking ceases. To improve preparedness, Cloud suggests the following actions in anticipation of the Great ShakeOut: 1) Enroll in alert systems such as the MyShake app for earth tremors nearby and the Konexus AlertSense for broad emergency notifications, 2) prepare a ‘go bag’ stocked with essentials including a change of clothing, medications, non-perishable food, water, a radio, and critical documents, and 3) develop an action plan tailored to each location one frequents, whether at home, work, or in a vehicle. The drill serves not only to familiarize individuals with the correct response during an earthquake but also addresses evolving safety recommendations, dismissing outdated advice to stand in doorways or flee to the outdoors during tremors. Cloud’s professional background includes extensive experience in local news and emergency communications, marking her as a reliable source on disaster preparedness. For further guidance on earthquake readiness, residents are encouraged to watch informative videos available through state resources.
In Washington state, seismic activity is a common phenomenon, with approximately 1,000 recorded earthquakes annually. Many of these earthquakes are small and often imperceptible; however, the possibility of a significant earthquake, known colloquially as ‘The Big One,’ remains a pertinent concern. The state has developed initiatives such as the Great ShakeOut, an annual earthquake preparedness drill that encourages individuals and communities to practice vital safety measures. This event not only seeks to educate residents on proper response techniques during seismic disturbances but also reinforces the necessity of personal and communal preparedness against potential devastating earthquakes that could occur without warning.
In conclusion, earthquake preparedness in Washington is critical due to the state’s seismically active environment. The Great ShakeOut event provides a platform for residents to learn and practice essential safety techniques during an earthquake. Key actions leading up to the event include enrolling in alert systems, preparing emergency supplies, and developing tailored action plans for various settings. Engaging in these preparations can significantly enhance individual and community safety in the event of a major seismic event.
Original Source: kpug1170.com
