[Evac-Net] Drop, Cover & Hold memo

[NIES Robert A * DAS RISK]

SECs,

Released this morning, here is the latest memo from John "Jay" Wilson of
Oregon Emergency Management on earthquake protocol. Please share it as you
deem appropriate. For additional information, contact Jay Wilson.

- Bob Nies

DAS State Services - Risk Mgmt

 

 

MEMORANDUM

OREGON OFFICE OF HOMELAND SECURITY


OREGON EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT


 

 

DATE:             September 20, 2004

 

TO:                  Local Oregon Emergency Managers

 

FROM:                        Jay Wilson

                        Earthquake and Tsunami Program Coordinator

 

SUBJECT:      DROP, COVER and HOLD EARTHQUAKE SAFETY MEASURE

 

There have been recent inquiries to Oregon Emergency Management regarding an
article circulating on email promoting the "triangle of life" protective
measure during earthquakes rather than using the Drop, Cover and Hold
procedure recommended in Oregon and throughout the United States. 

 

While the advice in the "triangle of life," article is well intentioned; its
prescribed actions are gleaned only from worst-case accounts from collapsed
buildings outside of the United States. Because buildings in the United
States are built to stricter codes and enforcement standards than those in
other countries, including Mexico, and Turkey, collapses from earthquakes in
the U.S. are rare. 

 

Structural analysis and behavioral studies confirm that the use of Drop,
Cover and Hold reduces the likelihood of serious injury, since most
earthquake injuries are a result of falling nonstructural elements (lighting
fixtures, ceiling tiles, windows) and contents (appliances, shelves, office
equipment). Post earthquake investigations in recent California earthquakes
have shown that most injuries occurred when building occupants attempted to
exit buildings or move to a different location in the building.

 

Drop, Cover and Hold is the earthquake safety procedure recommended by
Oregon Emergency Management, the Oregon Seismic Safety Policy Advisory
Commission, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the US Geological
Survey, and the American Red Cross. 

 

Recent scientific research has found that Oregon will experience future
earthquakes. Ultimately, Oregon residents should evaluate the earthquake
readiness of their homes and work places and take appropriate steps to
reduce their risk from structural and nonstructural building components. 

 

Please share this information with the constituents in your areas of
service. If you have any questions or need additional information, contact
Jay Wilson, Earthquake and Tsunami Program Coordinator, at 503-378-2911 ext.
22237. 

 

JW

 

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