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It
Could Happen Here…
In
the wake of major earthquakes in Haiti, Chile and Calexico, it seems like a good idea to
remind ourselves that we also live in “earthquake country”. With that in mind…
What
should you do if a major earthquake strikes while you are in the sanctuary? There
are not enough doorways for us all to stand under, and besides the doors are
dangerous glass. Trying to get
outside or walking any distance during a quake is not safe or
recommended.
The
safest place is probably the pew you are sitting in.
·
Lay down on the
bench, so the back of the pew is higher than your body.
·
If you are able,
get on the floor under the pew.
After
the Earthquake is over, the pastor and ushers will decide if evacuation is
necessary, and if so, will direct you to the safest exits. (Remember the two exits on either side
of the altar are available, if safe.)
If you or someone near you needs assistance, be sure to let the ushers
know.
If
you are in other areas of the church, normal earthquake response procedures
should be followed:
·
Get under a
table, desk or other sturdy object.
·
Lay down next to
a sturdy object larger (taller) than you (a couch for example).
·
Stand in a
doorway.
·
If you are
outside, get away from buildings, tall trees, wires and objects.
·
Stay away from unsecured
bookcases, tall cabinets, etc.
The
church has several emergency Earthquake Response Kits in place around the
facility.
If
everyone knows what to do in the event of an earthquake, we can all work
together to make sure we stay as safe as possible. Dennis Gray AUMC Safety Committee
Click on these Websites for more
Emergency Preparedness information:
Be Prepared at Home . . .
Please make some time to make simple plans, stock some extra water, food,
and know where your camping equipment is. Have a stockpile of water, food not
only at home, but also a small amount in your cars along with a change of
clothes and walking or hiking shoes in your cars. Make sure you have a
good flashlight in your car, and a good flashlight TAPED to the side of your
bed. In case of a night quake, you will not be able to safely go and
"find” a flashlight in the dark and possible rubble. Remember no candles
or matches until you are sure there are no gas leaks in your home, or the
area.
Have your "out of state" phone contact number on your cell, and make
sure all of your kids know it as well. In a large quake, local phones may
not work for days, but calls out of the state may work faster. If
cell phones don’t work, try a “landline” phone. Have this "out of state" person coordinate where
you and your family are, and if a meeting place is needed, to set that
up. In a major disaster, there may be no government assistance for
several days. Properly preparing yourself and family is vital.
The Red Cross provides great information on Emergency Preparedness...  Click here for a printable copy of "Be Red Cross Ready"
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