- Complete List of a 72-hour kit: http://beready.utah.gov/beready/family/documents/72-hourchecklistpdf.pdf
- Click here to register for the ShakeOut Utah http://www.shakeout.org/utah/register/
- Information on the history of earthquakes in Utah http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/states/?region=utah
- Complete brochure for emergency preparedness: http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/69fd78a2 – /69fd78a2/1
The Great Utah ShakeOut will be the largest live earthquake drill in Utah history.
Over 850,000 individuals, businesses and schools have registered to participate in the drill, which will kick in on April 17, 2012 at 10:15 a.m.
“This is the first time we have done a live earthquake drill as an entire state. We have asked the entire state to do the drill at the same time. We have about 30% of the state planning on practicing in this drill. It doesn’t matter where you are, it’s about practicing how.” Says Joe Dougherty, Spokesman for Utah division of emergency management.
- Carry a card at all times with important information.
- If cellphones are working, try texting first.
- Have an out-of-state contact.
- Designate family meeting places.
- Practice your plans.
Seismologists in Utah have reported that there are about 800 earthquakes each year. Although most of them are not strong enough to be felt by everyone, high magnitude earthquakes can result in serious casualties, especially for those who are unprepared.
“With nearly 800 earthquakes a year in Utah, students need to know what to do in this situation. The point in this drill is to make sure you know what to do if we were to face a 7.1 magnitude earthquake.” Says Dougherty.
Preparations for a high magnitude earthquake
“Start building your grab-and-go kits. Commonly called a 72-hour kit,” says Dougherty. “It’s important that you have a kit at home, at work and in your car.”
“Your grab-and-go kits can be assembled from household items, such as a backpack, flashlight with extra working batteries, a first-aid kit, garbage sacks and work gloves.” Says Dougherty.
The Great Utah ShakeOut has provided information citizens will need to keep them and their loved ones safe. For more information and to register online go to www.shakeout.org/utah/.
