Guam has several
earthquakes each day, but most are so small that we don't feel them.
However, every week or so there is a
tremor that shakes us all - and then there are the big ones (7.0 & above) that
occur more often than we like. As with typhoons, the after-math of an earthquake
is likely to leave us without power and water for anywhere from several days to
several weeks.
Unfortunately, there is never a warning before an earthquake. Aside from
keeping a lantern in your shower (we do), or showering in your clothes so you
don't have to run outside naked (we don't but I have considered it), there are
some things you can do to prepare yourself and your home for the shaking.
As with typhoons and tropical storms, the aftermath of an earthquake is likely to leave us without power for anywhere from several days to several weeks. Once the power is out, the water will follow as the generators used to move the water tend to break down fairly quickly.
Most of us keep containers of water for flushing and showers (we keep one in the shower, too, since you only have to lose water once in the middle of a shower to learn your lesson there!), several days' worth of drinking water, and plenty of canned foods and beverages on hand at all times.
Each of us should have made at least some preparation for a major
earthquake besides our disaster kit, including an escape plan for your family in
case of damage to your home - and a place to meet if you are separated.
Coming Soon:
-
What to do during the
shaking
-
What to do when the
shaking stops
---- Remember, in many emergencies, your computer will be inaccessible, so a hard copy of any Paradise Organized chapters you find especially helpful is
a good thing to have on hand! ----
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Earthquake