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Do you 72? Burnaby warns about what to do after an earthquake

A magnitude 4.6 earthquake hit Seattle early Friday morning – a quake that was felt up here in Metro Vancouver. It’s yet another reminder of the inevitable “big one” that will eventually hit our communities.
earthquake
Preparing for the first 72 hours after an earthquake should be on every family's list of things to do.

A magnitude 4.6 earthquake hit Seattle early Friday morning – a quake that was felt up here in Metro Vancouver.

It’s yet another reminder of the inevitable “big one” that will eventually hit our communities.

So it’s good timing that the City of Burnaby is attempting to help people prepare by hosting an earthquake-preparedness workshop tomorrow (Monday, July 15) at 7 p.m. in the Bob Prittie Library at Metrotown.

“Earthquakes and other natural disasters can happen without warning and take many forms,” says a posting on the city’s website. “Ensure that you, your family, and neighborhood are prepared by learning how to minimize home hazards, assemble emergency supplies, and develop a family reunion plan. In Burnaby, we believe that the more work we do today, the more we can help the residents and businesses in our community.”

For more information or to register, call: 604-436-5400 or register online.

The city’s website also has something called “Do you 72?” It’s a complete list of information to help you get through that first period after an earthquake strikes.

“When disaster does strike, the best protection is knowing what to do. Emergency Preparedness is more than having an emergency kit. You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours as it may take emergency workers some time to reach you.” 

It includes understanding what could happen where you live work and play, discussing with your family, friends and neighbours what you could, should, and will do after the emergency, and assembling equipment, supplies, and food to sustain you for at least 72 hours.

Click here for the full list of information.