Earthquake Preparedness

Sep 9, 2011

By Staff writer State Farm™ Employee

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Vancouver Island Sept. 9, 2011, a clear reminder that Canada faces the same risks as other earthquake prone areas. Taking precautions can help reduce your risk the next time an earthquake strikes.

Before The Earthquake

  • Bolt down water heaters. Strap them securely to a wall.
  • Be sure your house is bolted to the foundation.
  • Some walls may require additional bracing. Check with your local building department, contractor or architect for assistance.
  • Learn to shut off all utilities, should it be necessary.
  • Have fire extinguishers strategically located on each floor.
  • Make sure the chimney and roof are in good condition and well supported.
  • Attach mirrors, picture frames, hanging plants, or lamps securely to a wall or ceiling.
  • Keep beds away from glass or any hanging object that might fall.
  • Brace tall furniture or bookcases and refrigerators, and attach to walls.
  • Use sturdy latches on cabinets to keep doors from swinging open.
  • Use flexible connectors for gas supply to gas-fuelled appliances.

During The Earthquake

  • If you're indoors, stay there but seek cover under an interior doorway or heavy desk or table. Avoid windows and outside doors.
  • If you're outside, stay there. Get away from buildings and watch for chimneys, overhead wires, poles, or other objects that might fall.
  • If you're in a car, pull over and stop – away from bridges and overpasses. Stay in the car, and turn on the radio for information.
Was this article helpful?Yes ()  |  No ()

Tags earthquake, safety, weather

Learning Center Forum Topic

Do you live in an earthquake-prone area?
No comments.

Add Your Comment

Comments come from the public: We do not verify all information shared by those commenting. Except for messages posted by Authorized State Farm Contributors, the comments, opinions, and statements made by public contributors do not necessarily reflect the views, policies or practices of State Farm and are the responsibility of those individuals who created the information.

Want to participate in online communities? Read State Farm's Community Guidelines first.

This Learning Centre provides general information about insurance and financial services products, as well as other general content, and is provided for educational purposes only. Read More

Some content on this site includes content, information, or opinions provided by third parties or other sources. Content, information or opinions provided by third parties or other sources do not necessarily represent the opinions of State Farm and should not be interpreted as reflecting State Farm's position regarding any insurance product or the manner by which State Farm handles claims.

State Farm does not warrant any content, information, or opinions of any third party or other source. Articles or content about insurance or financial services or other general content do not necessarily represent products or services offered by State Farm. This Learning Centre may link to or interface with other Internet sites that State Farm does not maintain or control. State Farm does not sponsor or endorse those sites or the content, information, materials, or information on those sites. State Farm is not responsible for anything contained on such sites and makes no warranties or representations about the information, opinions, contents, products, or services offered on such sites. Not all of the products or services discussed on this site are available through State Farm. The information on this site is not a contract, binder, or agreement to extend insurance coverage. Any coverage descriptions provided on this site are general descriptions and are not a statement of contract. All applications are subject to underwriting approval. Coverages and availability may vary by state or province.

State Farm Investor Services (Canada) Co. Aurora, Ontario
Life Insurance and Annuities Issued By:
State Farm International Life Insurance
Company Ltd. Aurora, Ontario
Copyright 2011, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company.
Canadian Head Office: Aurora, Ontario

Related Articles

Questions?

Find a local agent below

Get a Rate Quote Now

Facebook Activity