In conjunction with the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, the Marshall County Safety Committee will be conducting an earthquake drill on Thursday, Feb. 7 at 10:15 a.m.
Most people do not associate earthquakes with Indiana, despite the fact that two major seismic zones – New Madrid and Wabash Valley – are in close enough proximity that they could create earthquakes with a magnitude as high as 8. Perhaps because of this proximity, as the years go on, it has become increasingly more common for property owners in the area to hire a foundation contractor for Earthquake Retrofitting Services in order to keep their home and family safe. It is crucial to conduct a foundation repair if there are cracks on your property’s foundation or walls.
The drill is designed to test preparedness capabilities in the event of an earthquake in the state, which could cause significant damage to buildings and critical infrastructures including roads, bridges, electrical grids, and natural supply gas lines throughout much of the state. Top that off with the fact that scientists believe we are overdue for a major earthquake, and the necessity for such a drill is obvious.
During an actual earthquake, the ground would shake indicate that a disaster is taking place; however, ground shaking is seldom the cause of injury. Rather, most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass and falling objects. While the committee understands that not everyone will be able to participate in the drill, they are still urging as many offices as possible to participate.
At 10:15 a.m., security will announce over the intercom that an earthquake drill is taking place and urge occupants to take emergency protective action. The drill will only last for two minutes and security will announce its conclusion.
During the drill, the Marshall County Safety Committee urges participants to drop to the ground, take cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it until the shaking stops. Stay indoors until you are sure it is safe to exit.
