In recent weeks and months, major earthquakes have hit Haiti, Chile, Northern Mexico and Sumatra.  Many people have chosen to send contributions to relief agencies or have traveled as volunteers to the affected regions. While we might not all be able to participate in direct recovery efforts, we can take stock of our own preparedness in the event of an earthquake or other disaster closer to home.

A large scale disaster, like a major earthquake, will limit or disrupt normal resources such as power and water supplies, transportation, communication and emergency response. We need to be prepared to live without reliance on those services for an extended period of time. Taking time now to consider a possible disaster scenario could have a significant impact on your family’s comfort and even survival.

The Multnomah County Office of Emergency Management suggests taking these basic steps to prepare your family, pets and home in the event of a major quake. 

• Have disaster supplies on hand. These should include sufficient food, water, medication, blankets and other supplies for the people and pets in your household to be as comfortable as possible after an earthquake. This might mean being outdoors in potentially inclement weather or in a disaster shelter. You should plan to be without access to stores or other supplies for at least five days.
• Have an emergency contact. This is a person located outside the immediate area that family members could call to "check-in" if they are separated from each other after an earthquake. Remember that cell phones may not function normally after an earthquake because of system damage and excessive call volume. Having access to both cell phones and land lines could be beneficial.
• Reduce the risk of injury and damage in the workplace and at home. This could include removing or securing heavy loose items from shelves; securing water heaters, and storing toxic or flammable materials in sturdy closed cabinets.

Please check the following websites for more information and resources on how you can prepare before a disaster strikes:

Multnomah County Office of Emergency Management

US Geological Service Earthquake Hazards Program

American Red Cross

FEMA: Prepare Your Pets