Submitted by Kate Baldus

The Big One.  That is what we all hear about every few years or so... usually after a major natural disaster in another part of the country.  We feel so lucky to live in the Pacific Northwest with no hurricanes or monsoons.  It is extremely rare to spot a tornado, the winter will see minor flooding along the rivers or at the coast, and unfortunately in the summer we have wildfires in our beautiful forests but they rarely threaten homes.  However, it is the Big One that we hear small rumblings about - will a large earthquake happen in the northwest in the next 100 years? 
 
Following the disaster in relief aid in the wake of Hurricane
Katrina, Portland has stepped up the city plan implementing
an "Earthquake Survival Program."  Most Americans know to
keep a few jugs of fresh water, blankets, canned food and
flashlight in case of emergency, but now you can print off an
entire safety plan for you and your family.  Schools will
continue to hold earthquake drills and the Red Cross provides
safety prevention information on a regular basis.  The best
thing to do is to be prepared - today is a great day to sit down
with your friends and family and create your own emergency
plan.  Also look at ways to "earthquake proof" your home and
ensure that new construction is being built to the safest codes.  If you are interested in earthquake insurance a few websites will allow you to search for the best coverage available for your home as most insurance plans do not include earthquake or flood insurance.
 
Be sure and have these safety items:
1) Seismic Strap to anchor all of your appliances.
2)  Emergency Plan for your home and family.
We live in the amazing northwest with rivers, lakes, mountains and volcanos.  If an earthquake does happen - Portland will be prepared as possible!