Earthquakes – Being Prepared

October 6, 2016

Earthquakes can be a bit unpredictable; however, USGS strives to narrow down the predictability of earthquake patterns and is a good source for seismic activity world-wide. More than likely you are aware if you reside in an earthquake prone area. Perhaps due to certain environmental changes in your area over recent years, you may now be considered at higher risk for seismic activity; as is the case in the upgraded 5.8 magnitude earthquake in Oklahoma.

Unlike hurricanes and some other natural hazards, earthquakes strike suddenly and without warning. Nevertheless, if your business is located in a region at risk for earthquakes there are many things that can be done to reduce the chances that those who work in or visit your premises will be injured, that property will be damaged, or that your day-to-day operations will be unduly disrupted. Effective preparedness requires that safety measures be in place before the hazard occurs.

Preparing for earthquakes involves (1) learning what employers and employees should do before, during and after an earthquake, and (2) prepare and practice those things now, before the next quake. Workplace preparedness requires the participation of owners, managers and employees, as well as those who design, build, regulate and maintain buildings used as workplaces.

Use the checklists below to help you get started or to add to your existing emergency plan.

Earthquake PreparednessUrban Destruction, illustration of the aftermath of a disaster

Commercial and residential property policies exclude earthquakes as a covered cause of loss. A separate policy must be purchased to protect you from resulting damage. At the Armstrong Company Insurance Consultants we strive to educate our clients through risk assessment and mitigation methods including; disaster preparedness, proper insurance coverage, and loss remediation. Contact us today! We are always here to be of service to you!

 The Armstrong Company Insurance Consultants  (License #0440075)