Response to Earthquake
According to the U. S. Geological Survey at approximately 5:38 AM this morning a magnitude 5.4 earthquake occurred in the Illinois region. The quake was felt as far north as Chicago and Minneapolis. Indianapolis residents report feeling the earthquake, many not realizing what it was until they turned on the television or radio.
The Indianapolis/Marion County Emergency Management agency has been monitoring the situation throughout the morning. At this time, there are no reports of injuries or damage. Many city agencies such as the Department of Public Works, Department of Metropolitan Development, IMPD & IFD will have personnel out throughout the day, monitoring the situation and responding if damage reports are received.
Citizens Gas, United Water and IPL have all reported no damage and will be re-assessing throughout the next few hours. Roads, Bridges and water facilities have all checked out with no damage.
Because we don’t live in areas that usually feel earthquakes, this came as quite a shock to many Indianapolis residents. People do need to understand it has happened before and will happen again. Being prepared is vital to individual and family safety.
During an earthquake, people need to stay inside and if possible find a safe spot under a door way or a large, heavy piece of furniture. Once the quake has passed, check on the wellbeing of family and friends and then make sure your home has not suffered any damage. If you smell gas or smoke, leave the area immediately and call 911. It’s a good idea to store a pair of shoes and a flashlight under your bed, so if you are asleep when something like this happens, you can get out of the house without injuring yourself on any fallen debris.
Making sure you have a plan in place before an incident like this occurs is invaluable. Knowing what you are going to do when it happens, where you are going to go and what you are going to take with you is important to your family’s safety.
For more information about preparing for any emergency go to the Marion County Emergency Management website at www.indygov.org/ema or the American Red Cross at www.redcross-indy.org or for earthquake information go to the USGS website at http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learning/preparedness.php.
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