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On the evening of January 28 th , a 2.8 Magnitude earthquake occurred in Portland beneath East Burnside. The quake may have just rattled some windows and nerves, but it was a reminder that earthquakes can and do occur in our area.
Geologists at the United States Geological Survey warn that a major earthquake striking Portland and Western Oregon is very likely. Oregon is above several fault lines that can result in earthquakes of magnitudes up to 7.0 on the Richter scale. There is also a history of earthquakes exceeding 9.0 occurring every 300 to 400 years at the intersection of the North American and Juan De Fuca plates off the coast of Oregon. The last “Big One” occurred 305 years ago.
Earthquakes strike suddenly, violently and without warning and if a major earthquake struck today, it could take up to 72 hours before victims received direct assistance. Because geologists can't predict earthquakes, the best course of action is to be prepared to act quickly and efficiently if and when one occurs.
Fortunately, much earthquake-caused damage is predictable and preventable. To be prepared for an earthquake in your area, the Red Cross suggests the following earthquake preparedness guidelines:
- Make a Plan. Pick “safe spots” in each room of your home. A safe spot could be under a sturdy table or desk or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases, or tall furniture that could fall on you. Designate a spot for family members to reunite in case they become separated during an earthquake. Know the location of the nearest hospital, Red Cross, and emergency offices. Choose an out-of-state friend or relative whom family members can call after the quake to report whereabouts and conditions.
- Build a Kit. Make sure you have everything you need to be self-sufficient for three days, including water, food, a first aid kit, clothing, battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, tools, and other necessary items.
- Get Trained. Make sure family members have been trained in First Aid/CPR by the Red Cross. Train family members in turning utilities off. Make a list of who needs to learn what and set aside a time for training. At least one household member should be certified in first aid and CPR.
- Conduct a home hazard hunt. Bolt bookcases and china cabinets to wall studs and place heavier objects on lower shelves. Install strong latches on cupboards. Don't hang anything over sleeping spaces.
For emergency and first aid kits, disaster supplies, and to learn how you can be properly trained, empowered and prepared to handle an earthquake, contact the American Red Cross Oregon Trail Chapter by calling (503) 284-1234 or by visiting www.redcross-pdx.org. For all potential disasters, the American Red Cross urges everyone to follow the five steps toward being prepared: Make a Plan, Build a Kit, Get Trained, Volunteer and Give Blood.
About American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Local Red Cross volunteers respond to residential fires and other disasters an average of every 32 hours. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide shelter, food, clothing counseling and other immediate assistance to those in need. Call (503) 284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org.
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