Earthquake Hazards and Safety

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Earthquake Hazards and Safety
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1- What kinds of damage can earthquakes cause?

• The severe shaking produced by seismic waves can
  damage or destroy buildings and bridges, topple
  utility poles, and fracture gas and water mains.

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2- How do local soil conditions affect
earthquake damage?

• Loose soil will allow more violent shaking than
  solid rock surfaces.

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3- What is liquefaction and how does it cause
damage during an earthquake?
Liquefaction is when the shaking from an
earthquake causes soft soil to turn to mud.
Liquefaction can cause landslides.
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4- What is an aftershock?

• An aftershock is an earthquake that occurs after
  a larger earthquake in the same area. They can
  occur hours, days, or months after the first
  earthquake.

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5- What is a tsunami and how can it cause damage
during an earthquake?

• A tsunami is a large wave caused by the
  displacement of water during an under water
  earthquake. They cause damage along coastlines.

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6- What types areas should be avoided when
building a structure?

• When building, areas that should be avoided are
  near steep slopes, filled land, soft soil and
  near faults.

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7- How can buildings be made to better withstand
earthquakes?

• Buildings can be reinforced, strengthened and
  made flexible or anchored to solid rock.
• Base isolated buildings are a type of building
  that is designed to reduce the amount of energy
  that reaches the building during an earthquake.

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8- What is the main danger during an earthquake?

• The main danger during an earthquake is from
  falling objects and flying glass.

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9- If you are INSIDE during an earthquake, what
should you do?

• Drop, cover and hold
• Crouch under a table or desk to protect yourself
  from falling objects
• Avoid windows, mirrors, wall hangings and
  furniture that may topple.

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10- If you are OUTSIDE during an earthquake, what
should you do?

• Move to an open area
• Avoid vehicles, power lines, trees, buildings or
  other things that can topple onto you.