Earthquakes a real risk in Yuma County

Preparation can help residents avert disaster

Planet Earth is full of surprises, isn’t she? One moment, people are sitting on the couch watching television, when suddenly, the whole house starts shaking.

It’s not a fancy new television special effect – it’s an earthquake, and depending on how far away the epicenter is, it could have devastating consequences.

Yuma has experienced its fair share of quakes, including a 7.2 on Easter Sunday, 2010.

And over the holiday weekend, many Yumans felt the ripples of the quakes in Ridgecrest, Calif.

Ridgecrest experienced a 7.1 quake July 5, and a 6.4 quake July 4. Aftershocks are expected to continue for days if not weeks.

Fortunately, there were no serious injuries or deaths in Ridgecrest, but according to the Associated Press, roads buckled, gas lines ruptured and buildings cracked under the seismic activity.

Major quakes have hit Yuma before, but if another were to strike, would you be ready?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says people should prepare by creating an emergency communication plan, making a supply kit to meet needs for at least three days, and securing any heavy objects like televisions, etc.

According to Ready.gov, if a quake occurs, the best course of action is to “drop, cover and hold on.” The agency notes, “Drop to your hands and knees. Cover your head and neck with your arms. Hold on to any sturdy furniture until the shaking stops.” If you are inside, stay there, and if you are in a vehicle, stop in a clear area away from buildings or utility wires.

Afterward, check yourself and your family for injuries, execute your family emergency plan, and be prepared for more aftershocks. If the building is damaged, stay outside until it can be inspected.

Earthquakes are a very real threat here in Yuma, more so than most other natural disasters. Take a few moments to do the research, and set up a family emergency plan and disaster supply kit. Earthquakes can happen without warning, but a few steps of preparation can help ensure your family is ready for any circumstance.