Published July 12 2019
Did the 4.6 earthquake that struck near Monroe around 3 a.m. Friday wake you? Some Bellevue residents reported experiencing serious shaking while others said they didn't feel the temblor at all. No damage was reported in Bellevue, but the July 12 quake is a good reminder to be prepared, with a plan and basic supplies, such as food and water.
If you stayed in bed, that’s actually the right thing to do. According to emergency officials, you just need to turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow if you’re in bed when there’s an earthquake. Otherwise, stop, drop and hold on.
In an earthquake causing widespread damage and injuries, first responders (police and firefighters) will be very busy, so individual and community preparedness is critical. Consider Community Emergency Response Team training from the Fire Department’s Office of Emergency Management.
Good ways to prepare before we have another tremor in our area include:
- Practicing “drop, cover, then hold on” with family and coworkers.
- Securing items, such as bookcases, refrigerators, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.
- Creating a family emergency communications plan that has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated.
- Making a supply kit that includes enough food and water for at least three days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle. Consider specific needs, including medication. Have extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment. Do not forget the needs of pets and service animals.
- Fixing structural issues that could cause your home to collapse during an earthquake.
Ready.gov is an excellent resource for preparing and responding to a tremor. You can sign up to receive Alerts texts or emails from the city during emergencies and extreme weather.