EARTHQUAKES AN EARTHQUAKE IS The sudden rapid shaking

EARTHQUAKES AN EARTHQUAKE IS… The sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the release of energy stored in rocks.

EARTHQUAKES • There has never been an earthquake recorded in the Cayman Islands in excess of magnitude 7, despite the fact that the Islands are located on a boundary between the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates.

EARTHQUAKES • It is not unusual for minor tremors to be recorded; most residents don't even notice them. However, in December 2004, a quake of 6. 8 magnitude rocked Grand Cayman and everyone noticed. The earthquake, short in duration, opened some small sinkholes but otherwise didn't cause any damage.

EARTHQUAKES • After December's event, and since 2004 was an active seismic year for the Caribbean, the University of the West Indies installed a temporary seismograph at the headquarters of the Mosquito Research Control Unit.

EARTHQUAKES • CIG bought four seismographs which will be deployed on the islands. These will monitor seismic activity and will also be part of the Caribbean Tsunami Warning System

EARTHQUAKES

EARTHQUAKES are accompanied by: A Cascade of Disasters

Effects of an Earthquake

EARTHQUAKES BEFORE THE EARTHQUAKE • Conduct a Hazard Hunt • Stock up on Emergency Supplies • Practice Earthquake Drills • Practice to Duck, Cover and Hold • • • Plan how to evacuate safely Know the location of utility shut- off valves Decide on reunion locations

HOME HAZARD HUNT

HOME HAZARD HUNT contd….

HOME HAZARD HUNT contd….

DURING/AFTER PROCEDURES DUCK

DURING/AFTER PROCEDURES COVER

DURING/AFTER PROCEDURES HOLD

EARTHQUAKES DURING THE EARTHQUAKE • If you are indoors - stay there and DUCK, COVER and HOLD • If you are outside - move to a safe area • In a crowded store or public place do not rush for the exits • • In a high rise building, get under sturdy furniture If you are in a car, pull to the side of the road and stop

EARTHQUAKES AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE • Evacuate the building • Check for injured or trapped persons • Wear shoes for protection • Use a flashlight when searching for fire hazards • Turn off gas and check gas, water and electrical lines for damage

EARTHQUAKES AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE • Immediately clean up spilled medicines or harmful materials • Never touch downed power-lines • Check emergency supplies • Use the telephone for emergencies only • Listen to the radio for reports

STEPS IN PLANNING AN EARTHQUAKE DRILL THESE ARE SIX COMPONENTS TO AN EARTHQUAKE DRILL 1. ALARM During the Alarm stage. Those involved in the drill are alerted by a loud warning device, such as a bell or buzzer. This must be a pre-arranged signal known by everyone, so that all will respond appropriately. 2. RESPONSE During the response phase, everyone heads for cover. Persons get under a heavy desk, table chair, bed or under a door jam. Make sure you move away from windows, glass or light fixtures. If there is no cover available. Crouch and try to protect your head. 3. EVACUATION After remaining in your respective safe-place until the shaking has stopped, persons should then evacuate the building. The evacuation proceeds through pre-determined safe routes and evacuees gather outside in a safe area away from buildings, fences, walls, electricity poles, bridges and trees.

STEPS IN PLANNING AN EARTHQUAKE DRILL Contd… 4. ASSEMBLY At the assembly point, the evacuees are grouped in order of classrooms, departments or floors - whichever is more convenient to facilitate the next step, which is roll call. 5. ROLL CALL During the roll call, teachers, floor wardens, or other designated before-hand determine if everyone is present. In the event of a real earthquake, a search and rescue team would have to be dispatched to look for those missing. 6. EVALUATION After the roll call, there should be an evaluation where the institution identifies snags in the drill. Problem areas, or potential problem areas.