Earthquake Awareness Week Comes to an End

1. Only Charleston has had earthquakes in South Carolina.

2. The best thing to do when you are in a vehicle during an earthquake is     stop your vehicle in a clear area.

3. Earthquakes in South Carolina only occur in the summer.

4. Scientists use magnitude and intensity to measure the size
of earthquakes.

5. Securing items overhead in your house is a good way to
keep from being injured during an earthquake.

>> Check here for Answers <<

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division will sponsor Earthquake Awareness Week, November 4-10, 2007. On November 7, at 9:30 a.m. the State will conduct an earthquake drill to help South Carolina prepare for an earthquake. State Superintendent Jim Rex has encouraged all South Carolina schools to participate and SCEMD is encouraging citizens and businesses to participate as well. The drill will be announced via NOAA Tone Alert Radios statewide on that date. In an effort to assist schools in creating earthquake plans, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division has produced a brochure titled Earthquake Preparedness for Schools.

Photograph from the 1886 earthquake in Charleston, South Carolina.

AWARENESS INFORMATION

South Carolina averages 15 to 20 earthquakes annually. The State has not experienced a large earthquake since August 31, 1886. The August 31, 1886 event occurred near Charleston, South Carolina and is one of the largest known earthquakes (moment magnitude [M] 7.3) to occur in eastern North America. Where earthquakes have occurred in the past, they will happen again. To learn whether earthquakes are a risk in your area contact your state and local emergency management office, American Red Cross, state geological survey, or department of natural resources.

Expect aftershocks. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that follow the main shock and can cause further damage to weakened buildings. After-shocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks, or even months after the quake. Be aware that some earthquakes are actually foreshocks, and a larger earthquake might occur.

Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related injuries result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects as a result of the ground shaking, or people trying to move more than a few feet during the shaking. Much of the damage in earthquakes is predictable and preventable. We must all work together in our communities to apply our knowledge to building codes, retrofitting programs, hazard hunts, and neighborhood and family emergency plans.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

1. The best protection during an earthquake is to get under heavy furniture such as a desk, table, or bench.
2. The greatest danger exists directly outside buildings, at exits, and alongside exterior walls.
3. Ground movement during an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of death or injury. Most earthquake-related casualties result from collapsing walls, flying glass, and falling objects.

Resources:

• When the ground shakes. A report of potential earthquake losses in South Carolina when the next time a huge earthquake rattles the State.
• 1886 Charleston earthquake photos
• Earthquake drill procedures with a simulation script
• Earthquake publications for individuals and homeowners
• Earthquake Mitigation – How can I reduce potential losses to my home?
• Earthquake Preparedness for Schools brochure
• Earthquake drill survey

Quick Links:

• Federal Emergency Management Agency – FEMA for Kids
• SC Emergency Management Division
• USGS Earthquakes for Teachers
• SC Seismic Network
• How to Report an Earthquake
• SCEEP (SC Earthquake Education & Preparedness Program)