Earthquakes are frequently so slight that you cannot feel them but are you prepared for when a bigger one strikes?

An earthquake is an adjustment of the earths surface that causes movement along cracks called fault lines. They are measured by something called a Richter scale which ranges from 1 to 10 in regards to the severity of the quake. While earthquakes are common on the West Coast of the U.S. and other countries throughout the world it is necessary to note that no area is totally free of the threat of earthquakes.

Unfortunately, there is still no way for scientists to predict when or where an earthquake might hit and they can do a devastating amount of damage in the short time that they last, usually less than one minute. In minor earthquakes you may only realize that you are in the middle of one when you notice hanging plants sways or objects wobbling on shelves. So, generally speaking at this point you have experienced an earthquake below 4.0 on the Richter scale. If the quake is under 2.0 on the Richter scale you will probably not even be aware that it has occurred but when the magnitude reaches 5.0 you can expect to see some damage. The Northridge Earthquake that hit Southern California in 1994 was magnitude 6.7 and did considerable damage. A warning that you are going through an earthquake can also be found in a low rumbling noise or a sharp jolt similar to the sensation you might experience if you were to ride a bicycle down a long flight of stairs.

If you find yourself inside when an earthquake begins to shake try to find cover under a table or other heavy piece of furniture or in the supported area under a doorway and hold on. Stay away from glass windows and shelves that may break and send out shards of glass.

If you find yourselves outdoors stay away from trees that may uproot and fall on you. Drop and lay flat on the ground.

If you find yourself on a bridge or freeway deck drive as safely and quickly off the structure as is logistically possible and then pull your car to the side of the road. If you find yourself on a straightway of road and you are in a car, stop the car and pull off onto the side of the road as soon as possible.

While sometimes called temblors, quakes, shakers, or seismic activity earthquakes can cost many people their lives so if you find yourself in one remember to drop, cover, and hold on.

[tags][earthquake, earthquake safety, Richter scale, seismic activity, shakers, tremblors, quakes, Northridge Earthquake,/tags]