Fault Systems

• Two major fault systems run beneath or adjacent to southwestern Indiana, the New Madrid Seismic Zone and the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone. Within the next 50 years, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimates a 7 to 10 percent chance of a magnitude 7.5-8 earthquake and a 25-40 percent chance of a magnitude 6 or greater earthquake. The area last experienced earthquakes of those magnitudes in the early 1800s.
  
  

Before a Quake

• Learn and practice what to do in case an earthquake strikes. Identify the safest place in each room, such as under a sturdy desk or table along an interior wall and where to avoid, such as near fireplaces, large mirrors or windows. Create an emergency kit with a battery-operated radio, flashlights, batteries, first-aid kit, two weeks' worth of bottled water, non-perishable food and medical supplies, cooking fuel, blankets and the necessary tools to turn off your utilities. Identify the main turn-offs for each of your utilities and learn how to safety shut them off.
  
  Prepare the interior of your home by displaying heavy objects on low shelves, anchoring appliances like the water heater and refrigerator and heavy furniture like bookcases to studs in the wall and storing fragile or breakable items in latching curio cabinets. Avoid hanging heavy mirrors or art work above beds or seating. Store flammable liquids like lighter fluid and gasoline far from ignition sources like furnaces, stoves and water heaters. Consider an earthquake retrofit for your home to strengthen and reinforce walls, chimneys and the roof.
  
  

During a Quake

• If you are inside when the quake strikes, take cover beneath a strong desk or table or along an interior wall. Cover your head with your arms to protect it from falling objects while hanging onto the furniture you are hiding beneath. If you are outside, get to an an open area away from trees, buildings and electrical lines. Should a quake occur while you are driving, pull over onto the shoulder, but not on or under a bridge or overpass. Also, avoid parking under trees, large signs and electrical lines. Remain in your car.
  
  

After a Quake

• Check for injuries. Use the first-aid kit to address injuries. Extinguish small fires and check the building for damage. If it sustained structural damage, leave and do not re-enter until it has been repaired and passed safety inspection. If you have lost electrical power, unplug major appliances to prevent possible damage when power is restored. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if you smell hot insulation or see sparks or frayed wires. Do not stand in water to shut off the electricity. Leave the area and call a professional electrician. Check for plumbing or gas leaks. If you discover a leak, turn off the gas main and get out of the building. Immediately report any leaks to the utility company and the fire department. Call a licensed contractor for repairs. Listen to the radio or television for instructions from emergency responders.
  
  

Indiana Earthquake Preparedness Program

• The Indiana Earthquake Preparedness Program (IEPP) coordinates and supports the state's earthquake planning, training and exercise activities and mitigation through the cooperative efforts of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and federal, regional, state and local partners. Training topics include allocation of resources, coordination, time management, and decision-making.