Skip to Content
Home

Stay Safe During an Earthquake

/ WMOK


(February is Earthquake Preparedness Month)

The worst earthquake in Illinois history occurred on December 17, 1811, and was so strong that it rang a church bell in
Cairo, Illinois. It also blew smoke, sand, and coal 30 yards into the air and made the Mississippi River flow backward.
February is Earthquake Preparedness Month. According to the Central United States Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC),
earthquakes continue to occur on a daily basis in the central United States, with nearly 2000 small tremors each year.
Southern 7 Health Department is encouraging everyone to follow these simple steps from www.ready.gov to keep
themselves and their families safe.

Start by being prepared for after an earthquake. Create a family emergency communications plan that includes an out-
of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. And make a supply kit that includes enough food and water
for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher, and a whistle.

There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or
downed power lines. Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions
via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.

Next, practice with your family what to do during an earthquake. When the ground starts to shake, protect yourself right
away:

 If you are in a car, pull over, and stop. Set your parking brake.
 If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.
 If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings.
 If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.
Drop, Cover, and Hold On! is the best way to stay safe with earthquakes. The phrase reminds people to:
 Drop down to the floor.
 Take cover under a sturdy desk, table, or other furniture.
 Hold on to that object until the shaking ends.

Details on how persons with disabilities reduce injury and death during an earthquake are listed at
www.shakeout.org/dropcoverholdon/ .

For more information on earthquake preparedness contact Bobi Cavins at Southern 7 Health Department at 618-634-
2297 or visit www.iemaohs.illinois.gov/preparedness/earthquake.html .

National Cell Phone Courtesy Month, observed annually in July, is dedicated to promoting mindful and respectful cell phone usage. It encourages individuals to reflect on their mobile habits and consider their impact on others. The initiative aims to reduce disruptions caused by inconsiderate phone use in public spaces,...
29m ago
Metropolis, IL - The 32nd Annual Gospel Music Cancer Benefit is set to take place on Thursday, August 7th, at the First Methodist Church, starting at 7 PM. This beloved event continues its tradition of bringing the community together in support of a vital cause-cancer research. The concert will feature the renowned Tri...
20h ago
21h ago
"Don't Step On A Bee Day" is an annual observance celebrated on July 10th. While its initial creation by Thomas and Ruth Roy may have stemmed from a simpler idea of reminding people not to walk barefoot and risk getting stung, the day has evolved into a much broader awareness campaign. Its primary purpose now...
Jul 10, 2025
Mrs. Wessel of Unity School 5th grade emphasizes the need for an updated school supply list that is specifically tailored to the needs of her classroom. Unlike the generic list found on the district website, Mrs. Wessel's list is designed to ensure that students only purchase materials that will actually be used throug...
Jul 09, 2025
See More

Comments

Leave a Reply