Stay Safe During an Earthquake [1]
Did you feel that? The 4.9 magnitude quake [2] on Monday — centered about 6 miles north of Smiths Ferry or 60 miles north of Boise — was powerful enough to be felt in the Treasure Valley. Seismic activity is common in Idaho, which ranks fifth [3] in the nation for earthquake risk after California, Alaska, Nevada, and Utah.
While the majority of tremors go unnoticed, knowing what to do when a larger quake hits is important. The CWI Emergency Handbook [4] recommends the following:
During an earthquake:
- Remain calm.
- If indoors:
- Seek refuge under a desk or table or in a doorway and hold on.
- Stay away from windows, shelves, and heavy equipment.
- Do not use elevators. An elevator may become inoperative and a trap.
- If outdoors:
- Move quickly away from buildings, utility poles, overhead wires, and other structures.
- CAUTION: Avoid downed power or utility lines as they may be energized.
- Do not attempt to enter buildings until you are advised to do so by the proper authorities.
- If in an automobile:
- Stop in the safest place available as quickly as safety permits, preferably in an open area away from power lines and trees.
- Stay in the vehicle for the shelter it provides.
Shaking with excitement to learn more about earthquakes? CWI offers ground-breaking seismic education in the Geosciences program [5].