If your odds of winning the lottery were 62%, would you buy a ticket? If your odds of experiencing a devastating earthquake were 62%, would you take steps to prepare yourself? According to a U.S. Geological Survey study in September 2005, there is a 62% chance that an earthquake of magnitude 6.7 or greater will occur in the Bay Area within 26 years; it could happen today.  Since the quake is most likely to occur on the Northern Hayward or the Rodgers Creek faults, both of which run through or close to Marin County, there is a real potential for widespread devastation anywhere in the county.

If You Are Indoors . . .

• Stay there! Unless the building is in danger of collapse, it's the safest place to be.
• Move away from bookcases, china cabinets, fireplaces, and glass doors and windows which can shatter. Don't try to hold things up - instead, move away from them.
• Duck, cover and hold. Take cover under a sturdy table or desk; hold onto the legs, if possible. Or brace yourself in a doorway or against an inside wall.
• If you choose to stand in a doorway, be careful that the door doesn't slam shut and crush your fingers.

If You Are Outdoors . . .

• Move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, chimneys and trees.
• Try to duck, cover and hold. Get under a picnic table, bus bench, etc.
• If you are downtown or near tall buildings, duck inside a building doorway immediately to avoid falling glass and debris.

Want to learn more?  Take a free GET READY class from your local fire department or online today!