Being prepared in the event of a large earthquake could mean the difference between living and dying.
We all should be aware of what to do if a megathrust earthquake hits. The province-wide drill on January 26, the Great British Columbia ShakeOut, provides practice if the earth starts to shake. It’s also an excellent reminder that we live in an earthquake-prone area.
Earthquakes caused by the slipping of the Juan de Fuca plate under the North American plate in the Cascadia subduction zone, off the west coast of Vancouver Island, occur every 250 to 800 years. We are now in the 400-year era. If there were an 8.0 on the Richter scale or greater earthquake in the subduction zone, experts predict significant damage as far away as Calgary.
In an emergency, first responders must focus on those in urgent need first. Because of Powell River’s isolation, in a widespread emergency such as an earthquake, outside help could be days away. That’s why experts recommend families should have enough resources for at least 72 hours.
Three simple steps can help prepare for all types of emergencies: know the risks in your region; have an emergency kit; and know and practice your emergency plan.
The Great British Columbia ShakeOut is a way to get people thinking about what to do during an emergency and encouraging emergency preparation for a minimum of 72 hours.
During the drill, participants are asked to practice “drop, cover and hold on,” which means dropping to the floor, getting under a sturdy desk or table, protecting your head and holding on until the shaking stops.
Prior to the drill, there is a wealth of information available to assist residents and businesses in getting prepared by making emergency kits and reviewing emergency plans.
We all like believing the big one will never happen, but history tells us something different. It can happen here and we should be prepared.
At 10 am on Wednesday, January 26, be a part of history and join in the largest earthquake drill in Canadian history. The time to take action is now, before the emergency.
