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Earthquakes in New York may not be common, but the potential risks are very real. Understanding how to prepare for an earthquake, what to do when the ground starts shaking, and how to recover afterward can make all the difference in your family’s safety. This comprehensive guide will help you get prepared and stay safe when the unexpected happens and help you know what to do after. Let’s dive in.
Is New York at Risk of an Earthquake?
Yes, New York is at risk of earthquakes. In fact, several fault lines run through the area. That said, the risk is fairly low, especially for severe earthquakes, which are exceptionally rare. Still, a severe quake could cause significant damage, so being prepared is essential.
Does New York Have an Emergency Alert System?
Yes, there’s an emergency alert system called NY-Alert. This free service offers real-time alerts and updates about local emergencies.
What Can I Do to Stay Safe During a New York Earthquake?
Preparing ahead of time is the best way to stay safe—that way, when SHTF, you won’t be scrambling around, unsure of what to do. The following tips on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake will help keep your family safe.
Before an Earthquake
Identify Safe Places in Your Home
Safe places are those under solid furniture like a sturdy desk or table. Avoid areas near windows, hanging objects, or tall furniture that could fall on you.
Secure Furnishings
Secure tall furniture like bookcases to the wall using wall anchors. Heavy objects should be moved down to the lowest shelves. Also, don’t hang large pictures or mirrors above couches or beds where people sit or sleep.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Everyone should have an emergency kit with at least 3 days of non-perishable food, water, and necessary medications for every household member, including pets. It should include a rechargeable LED flashlight, an emergency whistle, blankets, a first-aid kit, and a radio.
Make an Emergency Plan
Make an emergency plan with your family and teach everyone what to do if a quake hits. They should know where the emergency kit is, what is in it, and what to do in an emergency. Part of your plan should include what to do when a family member isn’t home and having a backup public meeting place in case your house is unsafe.
Prepare For Power Outages
During earthquakes, downed power lines or fires that damage infrastructure often cause power outages. Always have a backup power supply ready to deal with outages. The EcoFlow Portable Power Stations come in various capacities to suit any needs, from mini generators to more robust whole-home generators.
Which one you need depends on how many essential appliances you need to run. However, the EcoFlow DELTA Series Portable Power Stations are the best option for most homes. For instance, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 has 4000W of output, which will run a refrigerator, space heater, lights, laptops, and more simultaneously. They can be recharged using AC, DC, or solar panels. They are also expandable with extra batteries up to 48kW to supply even the largest homes completely off-grid.
Another option is the EcoFlow Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel). This inverter generator can also run on both gas and propane for versatile recharging options to address the uncertainty of how long the outage lasts.
Another thing to consider is the EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator. It lasts up to 40 hours wirelessly on a charge and can be recharged using a portable power station, AC, DC, or solar panels. Then, even if your fridge stops working, you can keep food at food-safe temperatures. This allows you to keep eating your refrigerated foods for a couple of days and save your non-perishables for when your perishables run out.
During an Earthquake
Drop, Cover, and Hold On
Drop to your knees and cover your head and neck with your arms; this is crucial since you probably won’t be able to stand long. If you are close enough, get under a desk, a sturdy table, or next to an interior wall free of dangerous objects and hold on to a solid piece of furniture. Those in wheelchairs should head for an inside corner or a doorway, lock your wheels, and cover your head and neck with your arms. For those in a bed or chair unable to move, cover yourself with blankets and pillows and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
If You Are Outside
If you are outside, try to move to a wide, open area free of trees, buildings, and telephone poles. Remain there until the shaking stops.
If You Are in A Car
Move to a clear area away from buildings, powerlines, and trees. Stop and remain in the vehicle. Afterward, avoid bridges and ramps which may have been damaged.
What Not to Do
Never try to run outside, or you could get hit with falling debris. Don’t rush for the exit if you’re in a crowded building. Too many people will already be doing it, which may cause additional injuries. Never use elevators during or afterward. Also, don’t go for a doorframe unless you’re in a wheelchair and it’s your only option; that outdated advice is more likely to leave you injured by falling debris.
After an Earthquake
Proceed With Caution
Immediately afterward, there will be all kinds of potential hazards, including downed powerlines. Household furnishing and even entire buildings may continue to fall for hours after the shaking stops. Make sure you have sturdy shoes to protect your feet, move slowly and carefully, and use all your senses to survey your surroundings.
Prepare for Aftershocks
Aftershocks often follow an earthquake and are sometimes worse than the original event. Buildings and other structures will have weakened from the initial shaking and are often more likely to fall in an aftershock.
Avoid Using Fire
Don’t use candles or open flames for heat or light. There are often gas leaks or debris that can easily catch fire and make the situation worse.
If You Are Trapped
If you’re trapped by debris, tap on a pipe or wall so someone can locate you. If you have a whistle, use it. Only yell as a last resort, as it can weaken you and cause you to inhale too much dust.
Inspect Your Utilities and Home
If you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911. Check if your water and power still work. If water is in your basement, don’t go there until your main power is shut off to avoid electrocution. Look for spills of hazardous or flammable liquids and clean them up immediately. Finally, secure unstable furnishings and carefully open closets and cabinets, looking for items that may have shifted.
Frequently Asked Questions
New York has several fault lines, including the 125th Street and 14th Street faults in Manhattan, the Ramapo Fault, the Clarendon-Linden Fault System in Buffalo, the Harlem River Fault through Washington Heights, and another through Van Cortlandt Park.
Yes, it can withstand a mild to moderate quake. However, a large earthquake could cause significant damage since most of the city’s older buildings were not built to withstand earthquakes.
Final Thoughts
While earthquakes in New York are rare, staying prepared is essential. You can protect yourself and your family by securing your home, having an emergency kit and plan, and knowing what to do during and after a quake. Equip your home with essential supplies like emergency food and water, a first aid kit and any necessary medications, and one of our EcoFlow DELTA Series Portable Power Stations for uninterrupted power during emergencies. Now, get prepared and stay safe, everyone.