Facts about Earthquake
Also known as tremor, temblor or seismic activity, an earthquake is a result of sudden movement of the earth's surface, caused by the abrupt release of energy that has been accumulated overtime; it creates seismic waves in the Earth's crust. Seismic waves are vibrations that travel outward from the quake fault at several miles per second in speed. The vibrations of seismic waves cause most of the destruction during earthquakes. Visit pameno.com to get more information on earthquake preparation.
Earthquake can be one of the most terrible and most damaging phenomena of nature and has a dreadful after effects. Some movements are gradual. Some of the earth's plates are locked together; they are unable to release energy, so when the energy is accumulated and grows strong, the plates break up. Earthquakes that take place in a populated area may cause severe damage to the area and may cause injuries and worse, fatalities.
Seismometer is the device being used to measure the intensity of earthquake. It is being recorded by a seismograph. The amount of energy released during an earthquake, which is computed from the amplitude of the seismic waves. A magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter Scale indicates an extremely strong earthquake. The lowest magnitude of an earthquake is 3 or lower while magnitude 7 is severe already, causing serious damage over the area where it occurred. Each whole number on the scale represents an increase of about 30 times more energy released than the previous whole number represents. Therefore, an earthquake measuring 6.0 is about 30 times more powerful than one measuring 5.0. The intensity of shaking, on the other hand, is being measured using Mercalli scale.
The Epicenter is the point where the earthquake originates. When the epicenter is located offshore, the seabed suffers sufficient displacement, therefore causing tsunami. The shaking caused by the earthquake can also trigger landslides and occasional volcanic activity.
Fault is crack that is seen from where the earthquake took place. The decrement could range from less than an inch to 10 yards depending on the severity of the earthquake.
Before an Earthquake
- Make sure to hold periodical earthquake drills with your family members, office colleagues, school drills.
- Be sure that the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation.
- Store bottle waters, foods and other necessities.
- Put huge or heavy objects on the lower shelves. If possible, fasten the shelves, mirrors, and picture frames to the walls.
- Make sure to repair defective electrical wirings. Get appropriate professional help.
- Have the gas lines or water pipes checked if there are leaks. If possible, have the pipe fittings change into flexible one to avoid breakage.
- Bolt down and secure appliances and over head lighting fixtures.
During an Earthquake
- As much as possible, stay indoors until the shaking has stopped and it is safe to make an exit. Limit movements or steps but be sure to be in a safe place.
- Stay away from any glass like windows, mirrors, glass doors, or anything that could fall such as lighting fixtures or furniture like file cabinets, book shelves, especially if they are not fastened. Most injuries during earthquakes happen when people are hit by falling objects when entering into or exiting from buildings.
- If in a high-rise building, and you are not near a desk or a table, move against an interior wall and protect your hear with your arm. Do not use elevators during earthquake. Do not be surprised if the alarm or sprinkler systems come on.
- Find the nearest sturdy desk, table, or bench to be your cover against the walls that might fall. Cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.
- If outdoor, move to clear, open areas and move away from any buildings, streetlights and utility wires.
- If inside a vehicle, stop as soon as you reach a safe place and stay in the car. Do not stop near or under buildings, trees, overpasses and utility wires.
- Watch out for broken roads or damaged bridge.
- If in a crowded store or other public place, do not rush to the exits. Get away from display shelves containing objects that could fall.
- If in a stadium or theater, stay in your seat and protect your head with your arms. Do not try to leave until shaking is over. After the tremble, leave in a calm, orderly manner and avoid rushing toward the exits.
- If trapped under debris, do not light a match, do not move about or kick up dust. It is best to cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing. Use a whistle or tap on a pipe or wall do rescuers can locate you. You can shout, but only do that as a last resort because shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.
After an Earthquake
- Be prepared for aftershocks. Although these secondary shockwaves are usually less violent than the main quake, it can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures.
- Check for injuries. Give first aid as necessary.
- Avoid broken glasses.
- Check for fire in the area and take appropriate actions and precautions.
- Check on the gas, water and electric lines. If damaged, shut off service. If the gas line is leaking, do not use matches, flashlights, appliances or electric switches as it may start a fire. Better to open the windows, leave the building and report to Gas Company.
- Be cautious to open cabinets as objects may fall off the shelves.
- Stay away from damaged areas, buildings or establishments unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire or relief organizations.
- Be aware of the possible tsunamis if you live near coastal areas. Mistakenly called "tidal waves", tsunamis are caused by seismic sea waves. When the local authorities announce a tsunami warning, assume that dangerous waves are on the way. Stay away from the beach.
- Tune in to the emergency broadcast stations on radio and television. Listen for emergency bulletins.
