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Keith McCord and Deanie Wimmer reporting Today's quake is a reminder that we should all be prepared in case we experience an emergency, and that's not just in case of an earthquake. Be it a quake, or a long-term power outage, or you're stranded in your vehicle someplace, it's always a good idea to have emergency supplies handy.
The Sonntag kids are getting a refresher course on their family earthquake drill. The standard drop, cover and hold on, is still the recommended practice from their American Red Cross instructor.
She checks potential hazards in the home. "This water heater isn't going anywhere, it really isn't, and I'm very, very impressed with that," Kathy Luke said. She also stresses a simple 72 hour kit.
Luke says, "I like to have some candy because, you know, the happy food. A little bit of water. I just think what I would need during a day or two days if something happened and I didn't have access to my normal life."
The phones at the Emergency Essentials store in Salt Lake are ringing a bit more often right now, and more customers are dropping by. It always happens when there's been an earthquake or other emergency situation--whether it be close by or on the other side of the world.
"When it happens close to home, it stirs up a little more reaction. Yeah, we've had some extra phone calls today about availability and what not, which is a good time to do it," explained Tim Pedersen, manager at Emergency Essentials.
Emergency Essentials carries all sorts prepackaged kits--from single-serving MREs, to a 25-box set of food that will feed a person for a year. Much of this food can be prepared by just adding water, and despite what you might think, there's a wide selection on the menu. "You can even get sweet and sour pork with rice, and turkey tetrazzini, and blueberry cheesecake is a real popular one. Just add water! That's a good comfort food," Pedersen said.
Many of the items that you can use in an emergency kit can probably be found in your homes now. Camping supplies certainly will come in handy--everything from stoves, to matches and water bottles.
A backpack can be filled with clothing and medical items that you or your children can grab and go. That's a real key when you're putting together emergency supplies: make sure you can find them quickly. "Just as long as they have those things grouped together so they don't have to do a treasure hunt through out the house and pick up things if time were short," Pedersen said.
OK, so when the shaking begins, what else should you do? The Red Cross advises: If you are indoors, stay there. Quickly move to a safe location in the room such as under a strong desk, a strong table, or along an interior wall. Also, avoid taking cover near windows, large mirrors, and hanging objects.
If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines and trees. If you are driving, stop on the side of the road. Don't stop on or under a bridge or overpass or under power lines, trees and large signs.
