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Earthquakes don't usually effect Georgetown, although Georgetown shares space with Charleston along an occasionally active east coast fault line. It is not uncommon, on this fault line, to have an occasional tremor, usually undetected by humans.
Earthquakes present unique emergency problems. Damage to the structural components of buildings is compounded by broken, underground water and gas mains. Almost immediately, the danger of fire is dramatically increased while water supplies are virtually non-existent.
Earthquakes strike without warning and may last up to a minute or more. Once you sense an earthquake is happening, move immediately under heavy furniture or into the door frame of an interior door. The danger in an earthquake is first from falling objects. Other dangers exist after the earthquake based on the amount of damage it has caused.
If you are outside during an earthquake stay away from overhead objects. Move clear of any area where things above you could fall on you, don't forget electrical lines. Once the earthquake is over do not drive over bridges or causeways until authorities have ensured their structural integrity.
When the earthquake stops, turn off electrical circuits at your breaker box, and gas service at the meter outside your home. If you smell gas in the house get out immediately.
Always Remember, major earthquakes are usually followed by smaller tremors, or aftershocks, which could last for several days.
For more information visit the Earthquake Center in California by Clicking Here.
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