Utah Seismic Safety Commission, 2008

Contents
Salt Lake City, Utah

Any use of trade, product, or firm names in this publication

is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply
endorsement by the State of Utah or U.S. Government. Introduction
Printed by the Utah Geological Survey, 2008 Utah is “Earthquake Country”.................................................................................1

For additional copies, contact:

Natural Resources Map & Bookstore Why Should I Care?—Utah is Your Home
1594 W. North Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah 84116
Phone (801) 537-3320 toll-free (888) UTAH MAP Utah and the Intermountain West are Seismically Active.......................................2
Email: geostore@utah.gov Most of Utah’s Populated Area Lies Within an Active Earthquake Belt....................4
http://mapstore.utah.gov
Utah Faces a Dual Earthquake Threat—and Earthquakes in
This report and any updates are available at:
Utah Aren’t Just a Wasatch Front Problem..............................................................5
http://geology.utah.gov/online/pdf/eq_handbook.pdf The Wasatch Fault..................................................................................................6
Manuscript approved for publication, October, 2008 Most Earthquake Damage is Caused by Shaking....................................................8
Earthquakes Also Cause Damage in Other Ways...................................................10
This document is adapted from California editions of
“Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country,” originally
written by Lucy Jones (U.S. Geological Survey [USGS]) Why Should I Prepare?—Big Quakes will Affect You
with later revisions by Mark Benthien (Southern California
Earthquake Center [SCEC]) and others, first published by
SCEC in 1995 and updated yearly since 2004. The booklet Response of Buildings to Earthquakes..................................................................12
was first adapted for the San Francisco Bay Region in 2005
by Mary Lou Zoback (USGS) and others, and published by The ABCs of Seismic Building Codes.....................................................................13
the USGS. See http://www.earthquakecountry.info/roots/ Utah’s People, Economy, and Infrastructure Are Increasingly
for all versions.
Vulnerable to a Wasatch Fault Earthquake...........................................................14
Disclaimer: The suggestions and illustrations included Your Life Could Change Unexpectedly in the Next Quake.....................................16
in this document are intended to improve earthquake Your Financial Situation Could Be Affected by a Quake.........................................18
awareness and preparedness; however, they do not
guarantee the safety of an individual or a structure. The
writers, contributors, and sponsors of this handbook do not
assume liability for any injury, death, property damage, or
What Should I Do?—7 Steps to Earthquake Safety
other effect of an earthquake.
The Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety.................................................................20
Prepared by the Utah Seismic Safety Commission (USSC), STEP 1—Identify Potential Hazards in Your Home and Begin to Fix Them...........22
Utah Geological Survey (UGS), Utah Division of Homeland
Security (UDHS), University of Utah Seismograph Stations STEP 2—Create a Disaster-Preparedness Plan.....................................................24
(UUSS), and Structural Engineers Association of Utah STEP 3—Prepare Disaster Supply Kits.................................................................25
(SEAU), in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency STEP 4—Identify Your Building’s Potential Weaknesses and Begin to Fix Them...26
(FEMA).
STEP 5—Protect Yourself During Earthquake Shaking.........................................28
STEP 6—After the Earthquake, Check for Injuries and Damage...........................29
Contributors: UGS—Gary Christenson, Christopher
DuRoss, Sandra Eldredge, Michael Hylland; UDHS—Robert STEP 7—When Safe, Continue to Follow Your Disaster-Preparedness Plan.........30
Carey; UUSS—Walter Arabasz, Kristine Pankow; SEAU—
Barry Welliver.
What Else Should I Know?
Reviewed by: University of Utah— Relu Burlacu, Lee Siegel;
USGS— Tom Brocher, Anthony Crone, Mark Petersen; A Review of Money Matters: Financial Impacts of Earthquakes............................31
FEMA—Doug Bausch; SCEC—Mark Benthien.
Earthquake Information on the Web....................................................................32
Production, design, and illustration by: Liz Paton and
Glossary...............................................................................................................33
Stevie Emerson (UGS) based on template for the San
Francisco Bay Region version of this handbook by Susan
Mayfield (USGS).

Other illustrators: Pat Bagley (front cover and pages 1,

15, 18, 22); from San Francisco Bay Region version of this
handbook (USGS), Todd Connor (pages 22, 23, 29).
 INTRODUCTION

Utah is “Earthquake Country”

This handbook provides information about the threat posed by earthquakes in
Utah, particularly along the Wasatch Front, and explains how you can prepare
for, survive, and recover from these inevitable events. If you live or work in
Utah, you need to know why you should be concerned about earthquakes,
what you can expect during and after an earthquake, and what you need to do
beforehand to be safe and protect your property.

Much has been learned about the result from damage to poorly construct-
ed, older buildings and their unre-
earthquake threat and vulner- strained contents. Improved building
Many earthquake-vulnerable homes and
ability in Utah: codes are now in force statewide, some buildings exist in Utah, placing occupants at
We know earthquakes occur here older buildings have been strengthened, risk. The State of Utah reconstructed the State
Utah has experienced sixteen earth- and steps are being taken to upgrade Capitol Building to preserve a historic building
schools and other critical facilities. Some and to ensure public safety and continuity
quakes greater than magnitude 5.5 since of government in the event of a large
pioneer settlement in 1847, and geolog- Utah residents have secured their homes
earthquake. (Photo courtesy of UGS, taken on
ic studies of Utah’s faults indicate a long to better withstand shaking, created September 24, 2006)
history of repeated large earthquakes emergency plans and disaster supply
of magnitude 6.5 and greater prior to kits, and held home earthquake drills. Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 1
settlement. Utah is not on a boundary
between tectonic plates where most BUT we have not done enough
of the world’s earthquakes occur, but
rather is in the western part of the North
to be prepared for the next large
American plate. However, earthquakes earthquake:
in Utah are indirectly caused by interac- Few households have disaster plans
tions with the Pacific plate along the If an earthquake occurred right now,
plate margin on the west coast of the where would you go to be safe? If you
United States. Also, many small earth- are at work and your children are at
quakes in east-central Utah are induced school when the earthquake occurs,
by underground coal mining. how will you get back together? “WHAT EARTHQUAKE HAZARD?”
Many Utah residents discount the earthquake
We know where earthquakes are likely Few households have disaster hazard based on the near absence of moder-
to occur and what they can do supply kits ate to large earthquakes, particularly along
Large, damaging earthquakes in Utah
You will likely be on your own without
the Wasatch Front, since pioneer settlement
are most likely to occur in a belt that in 1847. Most people living in Utah today have
vital services in the hours and days fol-
extends north-south through the not experienced a damaging earthquake in
lowing an earthquake. Are you prepared
center of the state (page 4), essentially the state. They are unaware of the long time
with water, food, first aid supplies, and
following Interstate Highway 15, where
medications? intervals between large earthquakes on faults
there are many active faults capable of
producing earthquakes. Moderate to
in the Basin and Range Province (average time
large earthquakes (generally magni- Few owners have taken steps to between large earthquakes measured in hun-
tude 6 and greater) can kill and injure retrofit their older homes dreds to many thousands of years, compared
many people and cause substantial Utah has many houses that predate mod- with tens to hundreds of years for parts of the
damage to buildings, roads, bridges, ern earthquake building codes. Is your San Andreas fault in California). Comparing the
and utilities. home bolted to its foundation? If you average recurrence interval with the amount of
live in an older building, has it been ret- time since the last large earthquake indicates
rofitted? Is your water heater strapped? that the next large earthquake is becoming in-
We know how to reduce losses in
Could unsecured furniture or objects fall creasingly likely on certain parts of the Wasatch
future large earthquakes and cause injury or damage?
Most casualties and economic losses fault (see pages 6 and 7).

1
WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Utah and the Stretching of the Crust Produces Movement on Faults

Most earthquakes occur on faults that form the boundaries

Intermountain West of Earth’s tectonic plates. Utah is not on a plate boundary,

but many faults in the state can produce large earthquakes.

are Seismically Active Between Utah’s Wasatch Range and California’s Sierra Nevada,
tectonic forces within the western part of the North American
plate combine with high heat flow from the underlying mantle
to literally stretch the crust in an east-west direction at the rate
of about one-half inch per year. In response to this stretching,
Geologic evidence shows that movement on the rigid crust breaks and shifts along faults, and the fault
the Wasatch fault and other faults in Utah can movement produces earthquakes.
cause earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 to 7.5, with
potentially catastrophic effects. However, it can
be difficult to use this knowledge to make us
Intermountain Seismic Belt
Utah straddles the boundary between the extending Basin
safer in our daily lives. Should we care only if we
and Range Province to the west and the relatively more stable
live along the Wasatch Front, or are other places
Rocky Mountains and Colorado Plateau to the east. This
in Utah also dangerous?
boundary coincides with an area of earthquake activity called
the Intermountain Seismic Belt (ISB; page 3). Utah’s longest
This section (pages 2-11) describes where
and most active fault, the Wasatch fault, lies within the ISB.
earthquakes occur in Utah and explains how
earthquakes will shake the ground and cause
Unfortunately, the heavily populated Wasatch Front (Ogden –
damage in other ways, such as liquefaction and Salt Lake City – Provo urban corridor) and the rapidly growing
landslides (pages 10 and 11). Technical terms St. George and Cedar City areas are also within the ISB, putting
used throughout this pamphlet are explained most of Utah’s residents at risk.
in the Glossary (page 33).

Sierra Nevada Wasatch Range Fault Scarp

Basin and Range Province

PACIFIC PLATE Wasatch

NORTH AMERICAN PLATE Fault Crust
(normal fault)
San Andreas
Fault
(strike-slip fault) Mantle
Upwelling
Heat

Source: Utah Geological Survey

Horizontal extension creates normal faults
Stretching, or horizontal extension, of the crust produces a type of dipping (or inclined) fault called a “normal” fault. The movement of
normal faults is characterized by the crust above the fault plane moving down relative to the crust below the fault plane. This up/down
movement differs from movement on strike-slip faults like the San Andreas in California, where the crust on one side of the fault slides
horizontally past the crust on the other side. Earthquakes in Utah can be generated by movement on a variety of different types of faults,
but the faults that are considered capable of generating large surface-faulting earthquakes are mainly normal faults in and near the
edge of the Basin and Range Province in western and central Utah.

For more information go to:

http://geology.utah.gov/online/pdf/pi-48.pdf
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/imw/imw_bnr_faults/

2
 UTAH IS YOUR HOME
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Relative movement of
REA
plate boundary fault
S FA
General direction of Basin ULT
and Range extension

Area of Intermountain
Seismic Belt (ISB)
Location, year, and magnitude
1934 of large Basin and Range/ISB
M6.6 Source: Utah Geological Survey
surface-faulting earthquakes

Fault scarp formation

In a large normal-faulting earthquake the amount of vertical
movement on the fault deep in Earth’s crust is sufficient to
rupture and offset the ground surface, producing a steep break
or scarp. Geologic evidence shows that individual prehistoric
earthquakes on the Wasatch fault produced scarps 6 to 12 feet
high. Similar-sized scarps have formed during historical surface-
faulting earthquakes in the region, such as the scarp shown
below, which formed during the 1983 magnitude 7.3 Borah
Peak earthquake in Idaho
(surface faulting has broken
and offset the concrete-
lined ditch in which the Surface faulting in Utah
people are standing). Over In historical time, Utah has had only one earthquake large
time, repeated movement enough to form a fault scarp. The 1934 magnitude 6.6 Hansel
on a normal fault eventually Valley earthquake was near the threshold magnitude for
produces a mountain range earthquakes that cause surface rupture, and produced a small
on the uplifted crustal block scarp in an unpopulated area north of Great Salt Lake. In Salt
(for example, the Wasatch Lake City, 80 miles away, ground shaking from this earthquake
Range) and a valley or basin was strong enough to cause adjacent 6- and 10-story buildings
on the downdropped block to sway and batter against each other and clock equipment to
(for example, Salt Lake Val- shake loose from the City and County Building’s 12-story clock
ley). (Photo courtesy of Walter tower and crash down through the building. (Photo courtesy
Arabasz) of the F.J. Pack Collection, Special Collections Department,
University of Utah Libraries)

3
WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Most of Utah’s Earthquakes in the Utah region

Populated Area Lies
Within an Active
Earthquake Belt

Historical quakes of
about magnitude (M) 5.5 and
larger in the Utah region*
1884 M6 Bear Lake Valley
1887 M 5.5 Kanab
1900 M 5.5 Eureka
1901 M 6.5 Richfield
1902 M6 Pine Valley
1909 M6 Hansel Valley
1910 M5.5 Salt Lake City
1914 M 5.5 Ogden
1921 M6 Elsinore (two events)
1934 M 6.6 Hansel Valley
1959 M 5.7 Utah-Arizona Border
1962 M 5.7 Richmond
1966 M 6.0 Utah-Nevada Border Making a home in Utah’s
1975 M 6.0 Utah-Idaho Border earthquake belt…
1992 M 5.9 St. George Distribution of
*sizes of shocks before 1934 are approximate settlements
in Utah in 1877
Source: Atlas of Utah,
Weber State College,1981

What is UUSS?
The University of Utah Seismograph Stations (UUSS)
is a research, educational, and public-service entity
that operates a monitoring network of more than
200 regional and urban seismic stations in Utah
and neighboring areas, including the Yellowstone
National Park region. For more information about
UUSS, recent earthquakes, and other earthquake
information, see http://quake.utah.edu.

4
 UTAH IS YOUR HOME

Threat 1 (time scale of hundreds to thousands of years):

Infrequent, large surface-faulting earthquakes (M 6.5 to 7.5) Utah Faces a Dual
on mapped active faults, such as the Wasatch fault.
Earthquake Threat
Threat 2 (time scale of tens of years):
—and Earthquakes
More frequent, moderate-size (M 5 to 6.5) earthquakes that do in Utah Are Not Just a
not cause surface faulting. If they occur under an urban area,
as happened in the 1962 Magna earthquake (see photo below), Wasatch Front Problem
considerable damage can result.

Earthquakes occur throughout Utah

• More than 36,000 earthquakes have
occurred in the Utah region since
1962. The Wasatch Front is part of a
regional Intermountain Seismic Belt
(map on page 3).
• One-half of the 16 damaging earth-
quakes in Utah of magnitude 5.5
and larger since 1850 have occurred
outside the Wasatch Front area in
central and southwestern Utah.
• One of the largest historical earth-
quakes in Utah was a damaging
shock of magnitude 6.5 near Rich-
field in 1901. The Sevier Valley area
Large photo: Damage in Salt between Richfield and Marysvale has
Lake City caused by the M 5.2 had eight earthquakes of magnitude
Magna earthquake of 1962.
(Photo courtesy of Deseret 5 and larger.
News, Salt Lake City, Utah)
• Thousands of mining-induced earth-
quakes (as large as magnitude 4.2),
caused by underground coal mining,
have occurred in Carbon, Emery, and
eastern Sevier Counties.
• In the Uinta Basin, an earthquake
of magnitude 4.5 in 1977 caused
minor damage north of Duchesne.
Earthquakes as large as magnitude
4.9 have been induced by oil and gas
production and other activities in the
Smaller photos: Damage caused by the M 5.7 Richmond (Cache
Colorado-Utah border region.
Valley) earthquake of 1962 (top) and the M 6 Elsinore, Utah,
earthquakes of 1921 (bottom). (Photos courtesy of, respectively, Ariel
D. Benson, Richmond, Utah, and the F. J. Pack Collection, Special
Collections Department, University of Utah Libraries)

5
 WHY SHOULD I CARE?

The Wasatch Fault

One of the longest and most active normal faults in the
world, the 240-mile-long Wasatch fault extends from
Malad City, Idaho, south to Fayette, Utah. The fault is
subdivided into 10 segments, averaging 25 miles in
length; each segment is generally thought to rupture
independently and is a separate source of large earth-
quakes.

Although scientists are unsure about how many small- A

to moderate-size historical earthquakes can be attrib-
uted to slip on the Wasatch fault at depth, the geologic A: The Wasatch fault (white arrows) typically extends along the base
of the Wasatch Range, as seen in this view to the east near Mapleton
record shows that numerous large (magnitude 6.5-7.5) in Utah County. (Photo courtesy of Rod Millar)
surface-faulting earthquakes have taken place on the
Wasatch fault over the past 10,000 years.

B
B: In some areas, the Wasatch fault (white arrows) trends away from the
mountain front, as seen here in this view to the northeast in Salt Lake
Valley along Highland Drive near 3900 South. (Photo courtesy of Rod
Millar)

C
C: At the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon in Salt Lake Valley, the
Map showing the Wasatch fault (red line) and other faults (black lines)
G.K. Gilbert Geologic View Park (yellow arrow) is along the Wasatch
in Utah that may be the sources of large earthquakes. Source: Utah fault (white arrows). (Photo courtesy of UGS)
Geological Survey
6
 UTAH IS YOUR HOME

Geologic information for Wasatch fault earthquakes comes

largely from trenches excavated across fault scarps. Twenty
research sites, many of which had more than one trench,
have been investigated on the Wasatch fault. These trench
studies provide information on the timing and size of
prehistoric surface-faulting earthquakes.

Radiocarbon dating of organic debris found in this trench

(excavated in spring 2007) across the northern Weber
segment indicates the timing of recent large earthquakes.
During each of these earthquakes, the ground surface was
displaced vertically about 10 feet. (Photo courtesy of UGS)

N At least 26 surface-faulting earthquakes have taken place on the Wasatch

Wyoming

fault during the past 10,000 years. All but two of these earthquakes occurred
Malad City on the five central segments (Brigham City to Nephi). The amount of time
Segment between surface-faulting earthquakes on these five segments averages
Idaho about 300-400 years. For any individual central segment, the average
time between such earthquakes is longer—about 1,200 to 2,400 years.
Clarkston Mountain In comparison, segments on the ends of the Wasatch fault have intervals
Segment of 10,000 years or more between surface-faulting earthquakes. The most
Utah
recent large earthquake on the Wasatch fault took place about 350 years
Collinston Segment ago on the Nephi segment.

Brigham City
Segment

Ogden

NO DATA
Weber
Segment

5 CENTRAL SEGMENTS
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City
Segment

Provo
NO DATA

Segment
NO DATA

Nephi
Nephi Segment

Levan
Segment ?

Fayette 0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000

Fayette Segment
Years ago Source: Utah Geological Survey

7
WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Most Earthquake U.S. Geological Survey National Seismic Hazard Map of Utah
• On this map, the strongest shaking based on long-term forecasts is generally

Damage is Caused
expected near major faults, such as the Wasatch fault, and in areas of greatest
historical seismicity such as the Intermountain Seismic Belt.
• Intense shaking can damage even strong modern buildings and their

by Shaking contents.
• Much of Utah has a moderate to high likelihood of future intense shaking.

The intensity of shaking that a

building or structure will experience
during an earthquake is highly
variable, but generally depends on
three main factors:

• The magnitude of the earthquake—

in general, the larger the quake, the
stronger the shaking and the larger
the area affected.

• The distance from the earthquake—

the closer to the source of the earth-
quake, the greater the shaking.

• The type of ground material beneath

the structure—soils may amplify or
deamplify the shaking relative to hard
bedrock.

Compiled by Utah Geological Survey from: USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps.

AMPLIFICATION OF EARTHQUAKE SHAKING

Strong shaking
Generalized east-west cross section through
2
Violent shaking
3
Light-moderate damage the eastern part of Salt Lake Valley, showing the
Severe shaking Heavy damage
Site effect: 1
Moderate-heavy damage response to seismic waves generated during a
Simulated
Wasatch fault earthquake. Earthquakes generate
seismograph response: WASATCH
RANGE
seismic waves at a wide variety of frequencies, and
certain frequency waves may be amplified by local
Jordan
EARTHQUAKE
EPICENTER
WASATCH
FAULT Bedrock soil conditions.
River
SALT LAKE CITY

Thin, stiff soil

Thick, soft soil
• In Salt Lake Valley, areas with thick, soft, clayey soil
Consolidated soil
& bedrock amplify low-frequency seismic waves, yielding
slow rolling-type shaking that can damage tall
Amplified low-frequency ground
buildings and long-span overpasses.
w aves 1
m
ic motions (tall buildings affected) • Areas with thin, stiff (e.g., sandy and gravelly) soil
over bedrock amplify high-frequency seismic
is

Amplified high-frequency ground

Se

2 motions (short buildings affected)

near Wasatch fault waves, which yield vigorous ground vibrations
FAULT 3
Bedrock does not amplify or
prolong ground motions
that cause more damage to short (1-2 story)
RUPTURE
buildings, such as houses.
Source: Utah Geological Survey
8
 UTAH IS YOUR HOME

Strong ground shaking from a magnitude 7 or greater

earthquake along one of the segments of the Wasatch fault
(see map, page 7) will cause major losses. However, we do
not need to wait for these earthquakes to occur to estimate
what they could do to Wasatch Front communities. Using
the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazards U.S.
loss-estimation model, we can estimate the extent of future
damage and take actions now to reduce potential losses
and plan for recovery.

Building Life-threat-
Displaced
Wasatch fault segment losses ening injuries
households
($ billions) and fatalities
Brigham City 3 14,000 500
Weber 16 57,000 3,000
Salt Lake City 42 150,000 9,000
Provo 14 48,000 3,000
Nephi 1 4,000 200

Losses estimated for a magnitude 7 earthquake on each of the central

segments of the Wasatch fault (page 7)

I-215
ake
tL

Wa
Sal

Geologic site conditions affect ground shaking

sat
eat

Wes

WA
ch
Gr

I-80

t Vall

SA
• This map shows the distribution of different soil types in

TC
Salt Lake Valley.
ey F

H
I-15
au lt
2100 S
• The intensity of shaking is influenced by the type of Zo ne I-8
0

materials underlying an area.

RANGE
• Deep sediment-filled basins and soft soils such as wet clay

Fau
5600 W

amplify and prolong low-frequency shaking; shallow, stiff

lt
1300 E
soils amplify high-frequency shaking.
OQU

I-215
r
IRRH

Jorda n R ive

Zon
e
high

Magnitude or Intensity?
Intensity of ground shaking

MOUNTAINS

9400 S

Magnitude is a measure of the energy released in an

earthquake—a single value that depends on the area of
fault rupture and amount of slip. For example, the 1934 low

Hansel Valley earthquake had a magnitude of 6.6. The

I-15

largest expected earthquakes in Utah are magnitude Latest Quaternary

faults; ball and bar
N

7.0-7.5. on downthrown side

For more information:

Wong and others (2002, Utah
0 10 KILOMETERS
Intensity is a measure of the strength of ground shaking Geological Survey Miscellaneous
Publication 02-5)
0 10 MILES
at a particular place, and varies by location, proximity
to the source of the earthquake, and type of material
underlying the site. The intensity scale ranges from low Map showing levels of strong ground shaking expected in a
magnitude 7.0 earthquake on the Salt Lake City segment of the
(I) to high (XII). Near the epicenter of the Hansel Valley Wasatch fault. The strongest ground shaking in Salt Lake Valley likely
earthquake, the intensity reached VIII; however, in Salt will occur adjacent to the Wasatch fault zone.
Lake City, intensity levels were about VI.

9
WHY SHOULD I CARE?

Dam failures and seiches

Earthquakes can make dams fail and
generate waves (seiches) many feet high
that flood shorelines and wash over

Earthquakes Also
dams. Hebgen Lake Dam, shown below,
was damaged by ground shaking, and
was also overtopped numerous times as

Cause Damage in waves sloshed back and forth in Hebgen

Lake following the 1959 magnitude 7.5
earthquake in Montana.

Other Ways (Los Angeles Times photo by Lacy Atkins )

Fires
Earthquakes in urban areas are often
followed by destructive fires because gas
Although most earthquake damage is caused lines break, electrical shorts ignite fires,
by shaking, other damaging effects of quakes damaged water tanks and broken pipes
limit water for firefighting, and clogged
can be just as devastating. For example, in the roads and collapsed bridges prevent
1992 magnitude 5.9 St. George earthquake, the access for firefighters. The photo above
greatest damage to houses was caused by a is an aerial view of Balboa Boulevard in
massive landslide in Springdale. Granada Hills in the 1994 Northridge
earthquake showing street flooding,
flames due to a broken natural gas line,
Damaged infrastructure and burned homes.

Earthquakes often damage roads and (Photo from U.S. Forest Service
bridges, hindering rescue and recovery Miscellaneous Publication 907)
efforts and causing accidents. Water
and sewer pipeline breaks can result in
contamination of surface and ground Surface fault rupture
water, and cause “sinkholes” that under-
mine roads and buildings. Damage to In a large earthquake, fault movement
natural gas and electrical distribution can break the ground surface, damaging
systems can cause fires and major buildings and other structures. In Utah,
service outages. Damage to petroleum the Wasatch fault extends the entire
pipelines can cause oil spills. The photo length of the Wasatch Front through
below shows damage to a Santa Monica many urban neighborhoods. Near
freeway bridge in Los Angeles in the 1994 Hebgen Lake in Montana, the barn
magnitude 6.7 Northridge earthquake. shown below was damaged when the
This bridge was similar in construction to Red Canyon fault moved in the 1959
older bridges along Utah freeways. Hebgen Lake earthquake.
(Los Angeles Times photo by Gail Fisher )

Hazardous materials
Earthquake damage can cause releases
of hazardous materials from refineries
and other chemical storage and distri-
bution systems, research and industrial
laboratories, manufacturing plants, and
railroad tank cars. The photo above
shows a train derailment in the 1994
Northridge earthquake that released
sulfuric acid from a tanker car.

(Photo courtesy of UGS) (Photo from U.S. Forest Service

Miscellaneous Publication 907)
10
 UTAH IS YOUR HOME

Tectonic subsidence Landslides

Surface faulting on normal faults causes Earthquakes can trigger landslides that
subsidence and tilting on the down- damage roads, buildings, pipelines, and
dropped side of the fault. The photo other infrastructure. In Springdale, the
below shows abandonment of the south home shown below was destroyed when
shore of Hebgen Lake in the 1959 earth- a hillside gave way in the 1992 magni-
quake as the lake bed tilted to the north tude 5.9 St. George earthquake 27 miles
toward the fault. Flooding may occur to the west.
along the east shores of Great Salt Lake
and Utah Lake due to subsidence from
earthquakes on the Wasatch fault. (Photo courtesy of Terry A. Humphrey,
U.S. Bureau of Land Management)

Rock fall
One of the most common types of
landslides caused by earthquakes are
rock falls, triggered by ground shaking
in areas of rock outcrops or loose rocks
on hillsides. The photo above shows
dust clouds created by numerous (Photo courtesy of UGS)
rock falls along cliffs near Price in the
1988 magnitude 5.3 San Rafael Swell
(Photo from U.S. Forest Service earthquake. Liquefaction
Miscellaneous Publication 907)
Earthquake shaking can cause certain
soils to behave like a liquid and lose their
ability to support structures. Liquefaction
often causes buried gas and water lines
to break. The highest potential for lique-
faction is in low-lying areas in saturated,
loose, sandy soils and poorly compacted
artificial fill. Geologic evidence in Utah
indicates that severe ground deforma-
tion caused by liquefaction has occurred
during large prehistoric earthquakes. The
photo below shows liquefaction-related
damage to a road at Moss Landing State
Beach on Monterey Bay following the
1989 magnitude 6.9 Loma Prieta, Cali-
fornia, earthquake.

Source: Salt Lake County Planning and

Map Showing Potential Seismic Hazard Areas Development Services
This map of northeastern Salt Lake Valley shows areas where a surface-faulting or liquefaction
hazard may exist and where site-specific studies addressing the hazards are recommended prior to
development. Such special-study-area maps are available at most Wasatch Front county planning
departments, and many cities have adopted them in their subdivision-approval process. (Photo by Dan Orange, University of
California at Santa Cruz)
11
 WHY SHOULD I PREPARE?

Response of Buildings
to Earthquakes A building’s “skeleton” or structure is most important for protecting
the lives and safety of its occupants. But so-called “nonstructural”
elements such as bookcases, shelves, ceiling tiles, and light fixtures
Much like an automobile on a winding roadway, buildings
often fall to the floor or hurtle across rooms during earthquakes,
sway to the effects of earthquakes. Foundations connect
injuring and possibly killing occupants. Such problems can be antici-
structures to the ground, and they play a very important role
pated and addressed before an earthquake. Just as buildings should
in determining how much force a building can resist. Engi-
be designed and braced for earthquakes, nonstructural components
neers study this critical interface and may choose to “cush-
require similar consideration.
ion” the effect by using special foundation designs.
The soil underlying buildings is an important ingredient in
determining the effects of earthquakes on structures.
• Soft, clayey soils tend to increase the motion at the ground Unreinforced Masonry Buildings
surface and thereby amplify the effects on buildings and
structures. One building type of particular concern in Utah is masonry con-
structed without steel reinforcement. Unreinforced masonry
• Rock doesn’t change the motion nearly as much as soil, so buildings were popular when the state was first settled and
shaking is more predictable. continued to be built into the 1970s.
A building’s configuration and height also play an important
Bricks are created from clay which is burned in ovens at high
role in determining the effects an earthquake will have on its
temperatures. This material was both readily available here
performance.
and familiar to the early settlers.
• Square or rectangular buildings typically perform better than
Many residences, in addition to commercial buildings, are
irregular-shaped buildings.
unreinforced masonry buildings and were constructed without
• Tall buildings respond by swaying back and forth. knowledge of how these structures performed in earthquakes.
Unfortunately, experience now shows this is one of the most
• Short structures are jarred from side to side as the earthquake
dangerous building types and evidence of its poor perfor-
releases its force at the ground surface. mance in earthquakes throughout the world is well docu-
The materials from which a building is constructed help mented.
determine how it performs during an earthquake.
• Steel and wood are considered flexible or “ductile” and tend to
absorb the energy.
• Concrete and masonry are more “rigid” and can transfer the ground In addition to buildings, virtually all structures are susceptible to
damage from an earthquake. Dams, bridges, pipelines, storage
motion directly into the structure.
tanks, and roadways are other structures that can be damaged by an
Earthquakes shake buildings from the ground up, and an earthquake’s forces.
important consideration for performance is the length of
time the ground shakes. The longer the ground shakes, the These infrastructure elements are often taken for granted and only
more likely the structure will be unable to resist the effects. after an earthquake are they viewed as critical components, neces-
Building materials can resist temporary “overstress,” but sary for maintaining our standard of living. The infrastructure we rely
when stretched beyond their limits, will break, much like a upon can be fragile in ways we may not understand until after it is
paper clip bent back and forth will eventually break. damaged or disabled in an earthquake.

(Photo courtesy of Utah Office of

Tourism; Frank Jensen)

12
 BIG QUAKES WILL AFFECT YOU

The ABCs of Seismic

Building Codes

Seismic building codes increase building integrity and help ensure
the future safety of communities. These codes are designed to
protect lives, but not to ensure buildings are undamaged or usable
after an earthquake. Seismic codes are intended to protect people
inside buildings by preventing collapse and allowing safe evacuation.
Structures built according to the current code should resist minor
earthquakes undamaged, resist moderate earthquakes without
significant structural damage, and resist severe earthquakes without
collapse.

A moderate earthquake that does not significantly damage a building
still can seriously hurt or kill people. Buildings contain items such as
light fixtures, heating ducts, windows, and suspended ceilings that
can fall on people or block escape routes. The exteriors of buildings Steel-frame tall buildings and
also can pose hazards to people walking by or exiting, including newer wood-frame short buildings
falling bricks, parapets, window glass, or other facades. are usually (but not always) the
safest structure types. Exceptions
to these generalizations are due to variables such as the configuration
of the building, the quality of construction and inspection, the design
of connections, and the manner in which seismic waves strike a
particular site.

Building codes provide minimum design and construction

requirements for protecting lives. However, some structures
with high occupancy, critical-response services (fire, police,
hospitals), and vulnerable populations (schools, nursing homes)
should be built above minimum requirements. Building codes
use importance factors for designing above these minimum
requirements. It also is important to protect utilities and infrastructure
since damage to these critical structures leads to more deaths, larger
economic loss, greater social disruption, and slower response to
Damage to Interstate 5 in 1994 Northridge, California, earthquakes.
earthquake. (Photo courtesy of FEMA)
The seismic provisions of building codes are
based on earthquake hazard maps (example at Map showing the ground-shaking hazard in the United States.
right) which show the probabilities of certain
levels of earthquake shaking in particular areas.
The code requirements reflect the fact that
some places are more likely than others to have
strong earthquakes. Utah has areas with a high
likelihood of strong earthquakes, similar to
states along the West Coast.

In Utah, seismic codes made substantial

improvements in construction as early as the
mid-1970s. Buildings constructed prior to
this time may be seismically unsafe. However,
buildings constructed in the 1980s would
also not be as seismically safe as buildings
constructed under today’s seismic codes. To
keep up with the current state of the art in
seismic design, building codes are revised every
three years to incorporate new knowledge.

Source: USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps

13
WHY SHOULD I PREPARE?

Utah’s People, Economy, and Infrastructure are

Increasingly Vulnerable to a Wasatch Fault Earthquake
• Nearly 80 percent of Utah’s population
lives within 15 miles of the Wasatch fault
in the Wasatch Front area.
• More than 75 percent of Utah’s economy is
concentrated in Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, and
Weber counties—above the Wasatch fault,
which projects beneath the developed
Wasatch Front valleys.
• Most of Utah’s state government facilities
are located within 15 miles of the Wasatch
fault.
• Major interstate transportation corridors
and the Salt Lake City International Airport
are located within 15 miles of the Wasatch
fault.
Earthquake risk (the
• By 2030 the population in the Wasatch probability of loss or
Front area is projected to grow to 2.8 damage) is increasing
with population growth
million, a 50 percent increase over 2005. and development.
• To meet the needs of the dramatically
growing population along the Wasatch
Front, $14.4 billion of new transit and
highway infrastructure is planned over the
next three decades .

The Scenario ShakeMap (left) shows the predicted levels of ground

shaking during a magnitude 7.0 earthquake on the Salt Lake City
segment of the Wasatch fault (see page 32 to learn more about
ShakeMaps). Severe shaking capable of causing moderate to heavy
damage will extend beyond Salt Lake Valley—both northward into
Davis County and southward into Utah County.

Compare the ShakeMap (left) with the map of developed land

in the Wasatch Front area (above). Much of the Wasatch Front’s
population and an extensive part of its built environment will
experience strong to severe shaking when the Wasatch fault
unleashes a “Big One” in Salt Lake Valley.

14
 BIG QUAKES WILL AFFECT YOU

How Likely is a “Big One*”?

Annual
Earthquake Source
Likelihood
Salt Lake City segment of the 1 in 450
Wasatch fault to 1 in 1,600
One of the Wasatch fault’s five
1 in 300
central segments (Brigham City
to 1 in 400
to Nephi, page 7)

One of 30 active faults in the

1 in 200
Wasatch Front region (page 6)

* A large surface-faulting earthquake of about magnitude 7

Illustration by Pat Bagley, The Salt Lake Tribune. Sources: Likelihood calculated by the University of Utah
Seismograph Stations from data provided in UGS, USGS,
GeoHaz Consultants, and URS Corporation reports.

Average Frequency of Earthquakes* in the...

Entire Utah Region
Wasatch Front (see map, page 4) Reality Check
Magnitude Frequency Frequency (for comparing to the chance of a “Big One”)
≥ 3.0 3 per year 8 per year
Cause of Death Your Annual Risk
≥ 4.0 1 every 2 years 1 per year
≥ 5.0 1 every 10 years 1 every 5 years Heart disease 1 in 450

≥ 5.5 1 every 20 years 1 every 10 years Cancer 1 in 530

≥ 6.0 1 every 50 years 1 every 30 years
Stroke 1 in 2,100
[based on geologic evidence, time scale of
≥ 7.0
hundreds of years - page 7]
Motor-vehicle accident 1 in 6,500
≥ Greater than or equal to
* Based on historical record and instrumental monitoring (largest historical shock
was M 6.6 in 1934); excludes foreshocks, aftershocks, and human-triggered seismic
events Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; causes of
death in the U.S. in 2005.
Source: University of Utah Seismograph Stations

Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 2

“UTAH ISN’T CALIFORNIA” Scientific studies in Utah indicate that “Big Ones” occur somewhere in
True, Utah is not California. However, many earthquakes are recorded and the Wasatch Front area on a time scale of every few hundreds of years.
located each year in the Utah region (page 4)—about 800 per year on These are high-energy earthquakes of about magnitude 7. They suddenly
average, excluding mining seismicity. Most of these earthquakes are small displace the ground vertically about 10 feet at the fault line. Within tens of
and not felt. Since 1850, 16 damaging shocks of about magnitude 5.5 and miles of the epicenter there is a high potential for major structural damage
larger have occurred in the Utah region. California certainly has more and casualties. In Utah, many seismically vulnerable buildings increase
“wake-up calls,” where earthquakes of about magnitude 6.5 and larger the damage potential. On a geologic time table, Utah is due for its next
that cause fatalities and major structural damage typically occur once or “Big One”—and, unfortunately, is a lot like California in this regard.
twice per decade. 15
WHY SHOULD I PREPARE?

Your Life Could Change Unexpectedly in the Next Quake

• Your children may be at school,

am ily be?
Where will your f
day care, or other activities.
• Family members may be at work
or commuting.
• Pets may run away or be injured.

Failure of fluorescent light fixtures in

the Dawson Elementary School Library Pets are not allowed in most emergency
during the 1983 Coalinga, California, shelters. Do you have a plan to feed and
earthquake. (Earthquake Engineering care for your animals after an earthquake?
Research Institute photo)

Will you have medical services? Will you be able to get home?

• Road damage and

closures may restrict your
ability to travel by car.
• The 911 emergency system will This hospital in • Public transportation,
likely be overloaded. Sylmar, California, had including buses, TRAX,
• Hospitals and other medical to be demolished after trains, and airports may
facilities may be damaged. the 1971 magnitude experience closures or
6.7 San Fernando
• Emergency rooms and trauma interruptions in service.
earthquake. (Photo The 1989 magnitude 6.9 Loma
centers may be overwhelmed. courtesy of USGS) • Commute times may be Prieta earthquake caused this
• Assisted living, critical care, and dramatically increased. section of the San Francisco-
other health services such as Oakland Bay Bridge to collapse.
dialysis may not be operational. (Photo courtesy of USGS)

16
 BIG QUAKES WILL AFFECT YOU

o stay • Your home may be damaged and

Will you be able t unsafe to live in.

in your home?
• Your personal property may be
damaged or destroyed.
• Construction materials and labor for
This porch on a wood-frame house repairs will be in limited supply and
failed during the 1989 magnitude costs will increase.
6.9 Loma Prieta earthquake. The • Rebuilding scams may be common.
“red tag” indicates that this home is • Availability of rental housing may
unsafe and must not be entered or
occupied. (Photo courtesy of USGS) be limited due to damage and high
demand.

Can you live without the How will the American

services you rely on? Red Cross Help?
After a damaging earthquake,
• Water may be in short supply. the American Red Cross will
• Natural gas and electric power may be out for days help in the following ways:
or weeks.
• Garbage and sewage services may be interrupted. • Opening and operating
• Telephone, Internet, cell phone, and wireless emergency shelters.
communications may be overloaded or unavailable. • Providing food at shelters
• Mail service may be disrupted or delayed. and feeding locations
• Gasoline may be in short supply, and rationing may and through mobile
be necessary. distribution.
• Bank operations may be disrupted, limiting access to • Obtaining and delivering
Where will you get your
cash, ATMs, or online banking. other needed items such as
water, food, medicines, water, baby supplies, and
and gasoline after an • Grocery, drug, and other retail stores may be closed
or unable to restock shelves. blankets.
earthquake? (Photo
courtesy of USGS) • Assisting with the
immediate mental-health
needs of those affected.
• Providing for basic health
How will your job be affected? needs at shelters and other
locations.
• Helping with initial
recovery through casework
• Businesses may sustain damage and and referrals to other
disruption—many small businesses require agencies and partners.
a long time to reopen or do not survive • Providing blood and blood
disasters. products.
• Your income may be affected—payroll checks
or direct deposits may be delayed. For more information go to:
• Your workplace may become a temporary http://utahredcross.org
shelter for you or others.
• Supplies and deliveries will be interrupted.

This business in Santa Cruz, California, was nearly

destroyed in the 1989 magnitude 6.9 Loma Prieta
earthquake. (Photo courtesy of USGS)

17
WHY SHOULD I PREPARE?

Your Financial Situation Could

Be Affected by a Quake This store was
temporarily closed
following the
2001 magnitude
Aid may not be available immediately following a major 6.8 Nisqually,
disaster. Without proper planning, the financial impact of Washington,
earthquake. (Photo
an earthquake on you and your family could be devastating. courtesy of The
Although many things are out of your control after a quake, Olympian, Olympia,
your ability to recover financially depends on a number of Wash.)
factors that you can control. Prepare and follow a financial
disaster recovery plan and you will be more likely to recover
successfully. Consider the following:

This bank was

damaged in
Will you have money, food, and medicine? the Nisqually
Washington,
earthquake,
• Bank operations may be disrupted, limiting access to cash, ATMs, requiring customers
or online banking. to seek services
elsewhere. (Photo
• Food, drug, and other retail stores where you shop may be closed courtesy of The
or unable to restock shelves. Olympian, Olympia,
Wash.)

Will you be able to recover financially?

• You are still responsible for your existing debts, such as mortgage, Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 3
lease, car, and credit-card payments.
• You may not have access to important financial records. “HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE WILL COVER ANY DAMAGE TO MY
HOME OR BELONGINGS CAUSED BY AN EARTHQUAKE.”
• Your assets are at risk without sufficient earthquake insurance.
Most residential property in-
• If you have earthquake insurance and experience loss, begin surance policies do not cover
working with your insurer to file a claim as quickly as possible.
damage resulting from earth-
quakes. A separate earthquake
insurance policy is one way to
Will your insurance cover your losses? protect your home and the in-
vestments you have made in
• Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies do not cover losses personal belongings. Investi-
related to earthquakes. gate your options carefully to
• A separate earthquake insurance policy is one way to help protect ensure that your assets are suf-
your home, in addition to seismic retrofitting. ficiently protected.
• Earthquake insurance also helps with additional living expenses
in the days and weeks after earthquakes.
• Relatively few Utah homeowners have earthquake insurance.

18
 BIG QUAKES WILL AFFECT YOU

Does your small business have a recovery plan?

• A business disaster-recovery plan will make your business better

able to survive in a post-disaster environment.
• Although physical assets can be replaced, emotional and social
changes that affect businesses and their customers may remain
long after a disaster. These small businesses in Santa Cruz, California, were
heavily damaged in the 1989 magnitude 6.9 Loma
• Businesses may not return to their previous revenue levels after Prieta earthquake, but both eventually reopened. (Photo
a disaster; however, some businesses such as construction are courtesy of USGS)
likely to be in great demand following an earthquake.

What types of federal assistance may be

available?

• Federal disaster-relief programs are designed to help you get

partly back on your feet but not to replace everything you lose.
• The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for responding to,
planning for, and reducing the effects of disasters.
• After the president signs a major disaster declaration, FEMA
cooperates with other agencies, such as the Small Business
Administration (SBA), in providing disaster relief.
• For disaster relief, low-interest loans are made available through This home in the Santa Cruz Mountains collapsed in the
Loma Prieta earthquake. (Photo courtesy of USGS)
the SBA to eligible individuals, homeowners, and businesses to
repair or replace damaged property and personal belongings
not covered by insurance.
• The maximum SBA personal-property loan is $40,000, and the
maximum SBA real-property loan for primary home repair is Useful Web sites
$200,000.
Ready Your Business:
• FEMA disaster grants for emergency home repairs and tempo-
rary rental assistance are available to individuals and house- http://beready.utah.gov/business/index.html
holds.
• The average FEMA grant is less than $15,000 (the maximum is Business Disaster Planning:
$28,800)—not enough to rebuild a home. http://www.acputah.org
• The Farm Service Agency offers loans to assist agricultural busi-
nesses.
Business Preparedness Information:
http://www.ready.gov/business/

19
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

The Seven Steps to Earthquake Safety

Earthquakes in Utah are inevitable, but damage from them or liquefaction, in addition to strong shaking.
can be reduced. Steps you can take before, during, and after
earthquakes will help make you and your family safer and • Don’t forget to think about likely economic impacts to
reduce your injuries, damage, and losses: you and your family from a major quake (see pages 18,
19, and 31).
• First and foremost, plan for the personal safety of you and
your loved ones. The seven steps described in this section will help you to
• Look into the safety of your home, workplace, and child’s be safer in earthquakes. They are arranged as measures you
school—don’t be afraid to ask your landlord, boss, or should take before, during, and after quakes. In addition to
school’s principal if they are aware of the hazards and following the steps at home, they should also be followed
have taken measures to make these places safer and at schools and workplaces. If everyone makes an effort
more earthquake resistant. to follow these steps, billions of dollars could be saved,
injuries avoided, and many deaths averted in the next big
• Find out if your home, workplace, and child’s school earthquake.
could be subjected to seismic hazards such as landsliding

You’ve learned your earthquake hazards, now follow these seven steps:

BEFORE A QUAKE: STEP 1.  Identify potential hazards in your home and begin to fix them
(page 22).
STEP 2.  Create a disaster-preparedness plan (page 24).
STEP 3.  Prepare disaster supply kits (page 25).
STEP 4.  Identify your building’s potential weaknesses and begin to fix
them (page 26).

DURING A QUAKE: STEP 5.  Protect yourself during earthquake shaking (page 28).

AFTER A QUAKE: STEP 6.  After the earthquake, check for injuries and damage (page 29).
STEP 7.  When safe, continue to follow your disaster-preparedness plan
(page 30).

20
 FOLLOW THE SEVEN STEPS TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

When safe, continue to follow your

disaster-preparedness plan. (page 30)

After the earthquake, check for

injuries and damage. (page 29) page 29

5
Protect yourself during earthquake
shaking–DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON.
(page 28) page 28

Identify your building’s potential

weaknesses and begin to fix them.
(page 26)

Prepare disaster supply kits.

(page 25)

Create a disaster-preparedness plan.

(page 24)

Identify potential hazards in your

home and begin to fix them.
(page 22)

21
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

STEP 1 Identify Potential Hazards in Your

Home and Begin to Fix Them
The first step to earthquake safety is to look
around your home and identify all unsecured
objects that might fall during shaking. Hanging objects
START NOW by moving heavy furniture, such as Art and other heavy objects hung
bookcases, away from beds, couches, and other on walls may fall, and glass in
places where people sit or sleep. Also make sure pictures and mirrors may shatter.
that exit paths are clear of clutter.
oo Place only soft art, such as
Simple and inexpensive things that you can unframed posters or rugs
do now will help reduce injuries and protect and tapestries, above beds or
belongings in a quake. Most hardware and sofas.
home-improvement stores carry earthquake- oo Hang mirrors, pictures, and
safety straps, fasteners, and adhesives that you other hanging objects on
can easily use to secure your belongings. closed hooks.

The following tips describe simple solutions to

situations in your home that could be dangerous
during earthquake shaking. If these have not yet
been done in your home, take action now: Objects on open shelves and tabletops
Collectibles and other loose
oo Check the boxes! objects can become dangerous
projectiles.

Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 4 oo Hold collectibles, pottery,

and lamps in place by using
“QUAKE INJURIES ARE ALL FROM COLLAPSING removable earthquake putty,
BUILDINGS.” museum wax, or quake gel.

Many people think that all injuries in earthquakes are

caused by collapsing buildings. Actually, most injuries
in quakes are from objects that break or fall on people.
Furniture
For example, in the 1994 magnitude 6.7 Northridge
Tall, top-heavy furniture, such as
earthquake, 55 percent of quake-related
bookcases and entertainment
injuries were caused by falling centers, may fall and injure you.
objects, such as televisions,
pictures and mirrors, oo Store heavy items and
and heavy light breakables on lower shelves.
fixtures. oo Secure both top corners of tall
furniture into a wall stud, not
just to the drywall.
oo Flexible-mount fasteners, such
as nylon straps, allow furniture
independent movement from
the wall, reducing strain on
studs.

22
 FOLLOW THE SEVEN STEPS TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

Water and gas pipes In the kitchen

Water or gas pipes anywhere in your home can break. Water Glassware and china may crash to the floor if
leaks can cause extensive damage, and gas leaks are a major cabinet doors are unsecured. Gas appliances
fire hazard. can shift, rupturing their gas connections.

oo Have a plumber evaluate, replace, and properly secure oo Secure all cabinet doors,
rusted or worn water and gas pipes. especially those overhead, to
oo If not already done, have a plumber replace rigid gas help prevent contents from
connections to water heaters, stoves, dryers, and other falling out during quakes.
gas appliances with flexible (corrugated) stainless-steel Use latches designed
gas connectors (see below). for child-proofing or
oo Excess-flow gas-shutoff valves for individual appliances, earthquake or boat
which stop gas flow in case of a catastrophic leak, are safety.
also now available for use with flexible connectors. oo Secure refrigerators
and other major
appliances to walls
Water heaters using earthquake
appliance straps.
Unsecured water heaters may fall over, rupturing rigid water
and gas connections.
In the garage or utility room
oo Water heaters should be anchored to wall studs or
masonry with metal straps and lag Items stored in garages and utility rooms can fall, causing
screws. Kits are available at injuries, damage, and hazardous spills or leaks.
hardware stores and home
centers. oo Move flammable or hazardous materials to low areas that
oo If not already are secure.
done, have oo Ensure that items stored above or beside vehicles cannot
a plumber fall, damaging or blocking them.
install flexible
(corrugated) Flexible
copper water water
Home electronics
connectors. connectors
Large electronic devices may fall, causing injuries and
damage. They are also costly to replace.

oo Secure TVs, stereos, computers, and microwave ovens

with flexible nylon straps and buckles for easy removal
and relocation.

Flexible
gas connector

For more information on making your

home safer in earthquakes go to:
http://beready.utah.gov

23
BEFORE A QUAKE
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

STEP 2 Create a Disaster-Preparedness Plan

Will everyone in your household know how to react during and "chirping" sound (low-battery signal).
after strong earthquake shaking? To be ready for the quakes oo Check with your fire department to see if there is a
that are certain to happen in Utah, it is important that your Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in your
family have a disaster-preparedness plan. Hold occasional area. If not, ask how to start one.
earthquake “drills” to practice your plan. Share your disaster
plan with your neighbors and discuss key points with babysit- Plan NOW to communicate and recover after an
ters, house sitters, and house guests. Your plan should include
most of the following: earthquake
Don’t wait until the next earthquake to do the following:
Plan NOW to be safe during an earthquake
oo Locate a safe place outside of your home for your family
In a strong earthquake, individual survival skills will to meet after the shaking stops.
be crucial: oo Establish an out-of-area contact person who can be called
by everyone in the household to relay information.
oo Practice "DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON." (See STEP 5, page oo Provide all family members with a list of important
28) contact phone numbers.
oo Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy oo Determine where you might live if your home cannot
desks and tables. be occupied after an earthquake or other disaster (ask
oo Learn how to protect yourself no matter where you are friends or relatives).
when an earthquake strikes. (See STEP 5, page 28) oo Learn about the earthquake plan developed by your
children’s school or day care, and keep your children's
Plan NOW to respond after an earthquake school emergency release cards current.
oo Keep copies of insurance policies, financial records, and
Doing the following will enable you to help your other essential documents in a secure location, such as
family and others after a strong quake: with your household disaster kit. Include a household
inventory (a list and photos or video of your belongings).
oo Keep shoes and a working flashlight next to each bed.
oo Teach everyone in your household to use emergency
whistles and (or) to knock three times repeatedly if Your family may be
trapped. Rescuers searching collapsed buildings will be sleeping when the next
listening for sounds. strong quake hits Utah.
After the shaking stops,
oo Identify the needs of household members and neighbors the lights may be out and
with special requirements or situations, such as use of a broken glass and other
wheelchair, walking aids, special diets, or medication. dangerous debris may
litter the floor, making it
oo Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary unsafe to walk barefoot.
resuscitation) training course. Learn who in your Keep a flashlight and
neighborhood is trained in first aid and CPR. a pair of sturdy shoes
oo Know the locations of utility shutoffs and keep needed secured to or within reach
of everyone’s bed. A good
tools nearby. Know how to turn off the gas, water, and way to do this is to use a
electricity to your home. Only turn off the gas if you smell drawstring bag tied to a
or hear leaking gas. (See STEP 6, page 29) bedpost at the head of the
bed for each occupant.
oo Get training from your local fire department in how to (Photo courtesy USGS)
properly use a fire extinguisher.
oo Install smoke alarms and test them monthly. Change
the battery once a year, or sooner if the alarm emits a

24
 FOLLOW THE SEVEN STEPS TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

STEP 3 Prepare Disaster Supply Kits

(Photo courtesy of American Red Cross)

Personal disaster kits Household disaster kit

Everyone in your family should have their own personal disaster Electrical, water, transportation, and other vital systems can
kits. These kits are collections of supplies they may need when a be disrupted for several days or more after a large earthquake.
quake strikes. Emergency response agencies and hospitals will likely be
overwhelmed and unable to provide you with immediate
Personalize these kits and keep them where they can easily be assistance.
reached—at home, in the car, at work or school. A backpack or
other small bag is best for these kits so that they can be easily To help your family cope after a strong earthquake, store a
carried in an evacuation. Include the following items: household disaster kit in an easily accessible safe location. This
kit, which complements your personal disaster kits, should be in
oo Medications, a list of prescriptions, copies of medical a large portable watertight container and should hold at least a
insurance cards, doctors’ names and contact information. 3- to 5-day supply of the following items:
oo Medical consent forms for dependents.
oo First aid kit and handbook. oo Drinking water (minimum one gallon per person per day).
oo Spare eyeglasses, personal hygiene supplies, and oo First aid supplies, medications, and essential hygiene items,
sturdy shoes. such as soap, toothpaste, and toilet paper.
oo Bottled water. oo Emergency lighting—light sticks and (or) a working
oo Whistle (to alert rescuers to your location). flashlight with extra batteries and light bulbs (hand-
oo Emergency cash. powered flashlights are also available).
oo Personal identification. oo A hand-cranked or battery-operated radio (and spare
oo List of emergency contact phone numbers. batteries).
oo Snack foods high in calories. oo Canned and packaged foods and cooking utensils,
oo Emergency lighting—light sticks and (or) a working including a manual can opener.
flashlight with extra batteries and light bulbs (hand- oo Items to protect you from the elements, such as warm
powered flashlights are also available). clothing, sturdy shoes, extra socks, blankets, and perhaps
oo Comfort items, such as games, crayons, writing materials, even a tent.
and teddy bears. oo Heavy-duty plastic bags for waste and to serve other uses,
such as tarps and rain ponchos.
A Special Note A oo Work gloves and protective goggles.
bout Children oo Pet food and pet restraints.
Before the ne oo Copies of vital documents, such as insurance policies and
xt earthquake
discuss what , spend time
might occur. with your kids personal identification.
disaster plan, Involve them to
preparing disa in developing Note: Replace perishable items like water, food, medications, and
toy they wan ster kits (ask your
t to include), them what ga batteries on a yearly basis.
HOLD ON.” and practicin me or
g “DROP, COVE
R, AND
In the days
after a quak
For more information on safety, preparedness, and
support. They e, kids need
aftershocks w
may be fright extr
ened and unde a contact and disaster kits, go to:
on’t let them r
have to leave forget the expe great stress, and Telephone book:
children with rience. Parent
emergency, an others in orde s may The front section of your local phone book
d this can be r to deal with
your children scary. Whene the Be Ready Utah
in the earthq ver possible,
uake recovery include
Resources for process. http://beready.utah.gov
kids to learn ab Rocky Mountain Power
http://www.fe out disaster pr
ma.gov/kids/ eparedness: http://www.rockymtnpower.net/Article/Article36707/html
http://earthq
uake.usgs.gov
/4kids/ Questar Gas
http://www.questargas.com/brochures/index.html#SAFETY

25
BEFORE A QUAKE
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

STEP 4 Identify Your Building’s Potential

Weaknesses and Begin to Fix Them
Is your house, condo, or apartment strong Structural-Safety Quiz for
enough to withstand an earthquake? Homes and Other Buildings
Use the following quiz to see if your home is likely to be so 1. When was your home built?
badly damaged in a future earthquake that people might ooBefore 1970 = 6 points
be injured or that it would be unsafe to occupy. If your oo1970 – 1980 = 3 points
home scores above 17 on the quiz, you probably should ooAfter 1980 = 1 point
have a structural engineer evaluate it unless it has been
2. How many stories and what style is your home?
strengthened in the last few years. The engineer will check
to see if your home is strong enough to keep you and your oo2 or more stories above grade with stepped floors,
family reasonably safe in an earthquake by looking for the split levels, or large openings in floors = 5 points
following: oo2 or more stories above grade with flat floors, no
steps in the floor, and no large openings in floors =
• Is your house properly connected to the foundation? 3 points
oo1 story rambler above grade = 1 point
• Is there plywood on the exterior walls of your house?
3. What is the construction material of the exterior walls?
• Are there anchors attaching the roof and floor systems
ooUnreinforced masonry bearing walls = 7 points
to the walls?
ooWood or reinforced masonry with full height brick
• Is your house constructed out of unreinforced masonry? veneer = 3 points
ooWood or reinforced masonry = 1 point
• Do you have large openings like a garage door that may
require better bracing? 4. What are the foundation walls constructed from?
ooStacked rock or brick, with basement = 5 points
ooStacked rock or brick, no basement = 3 point
The following quiz will help you to determine the adequacy
ooConcrete, with or without basement = 1 point
of your house in resisting a seismic event. Once you have
ooSlab on grade, no basement = 0 points
identified the areas requiring retrofitting, prioritize how
and when to fix them, and get started. Local building 5. Where is your house located? (see map, page 8)
departments and the Structural Engineers Association of
Utah are excellent resources.

Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 5 1 pt 3 pts 5 pts 8 pts

“WE HAVE GOOD BUILDING CODES, SO WE MUST HAVE SAFE Total points = __________
BUILDINGS.”
If your home scores 17 or more points on the quiz, you probably
The best building code in the world does nothing for buildings built should have an engineer, architect, or contractor evaluate it.
before the code was enacted. Although building codes used in Utah
EXAMPLES:
have strict seismic provisions, many older buildings, particularly
unreinforced masonry buildings, have not been “retrofitted” to meet
1. 1958, 1 story, unreinforced masonry, concrete foundation,
updated codes. Retrofitting—fixing problems in older buildings—
Salt Lake City: 6+1+7+1+8 = 23
is the responsibility of a building’s owner.
2. 1995, 2 story (flat), wood (brick veneer), concrete
foundation, Ogden: 1+3+3+1+8 = 16
3. 2006, 2 story (large openings), wood, slab on grade, St.
George: 1+5+1+0+3 = 10

26
 FOLLOW THE SEVEN STEPS TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

Utah Parapet Ordinance

1
On October 28, 1983, two girls, ages The 1962 Cache Valley earthquake (mag-
6 and 7, were killed by falling debris nitude 5.7) is another example of falling
from a parapet (a wall-like barrier at the debris from parapets. Arrows in photo
edge of a roof ) on a business in Challis, 3 show the path of bricks that tumbled
Idaho, as they walked to school. Challis from the parapet of a drugstore onto the
is about 13 miles north of the epicen- roof of the City Cafe in Lewiston, Utah.
ter of the 1983 Borah Peak earthquake Luckily this cafe in Lewiston was not
(magnitude 7.3). Photos 1 and 2 were open when the earthquake occurred
taken of damaged buildings from this (see photo 4). Photo 5 shows damage to
earthquake in the nearby town of Mac- an unreinforced masonry building in the
kay, Idaho. These deaths were the first 2008 magnitude 6 Wells, Nevada, earth-
2
caused by an earthquake in the United quake.
States since 65 people were killed in the
San Fernando earthquake in California In response to the damage from past
on February 9, 1971. earthquakes, a parapet-bracing ordi-
nance was enacted in 1991 in Utah. This
ordinance requires that a licensed engi-
neer evaluate the adequacy of parapet
bracing and the connection of the walls
to the roof when a commercial building
(built prior to 1975) is to be re-roofed.
This ordinance can be found in the Utah
3
Uniform Building Standards Act Rules,
Statewide Amendments to the Interna-
tional Building Code (R156-56-704).

The bracing of parapets, creating strong

wall-to-roof connections, and bracing or
elimination of other roof appendages
(chimneys and cornices) are among the
simplest and most cost-effective seismic
upgrades that can be made to a build-
ing.
4

The figures at left show how to brace

parapets and chimneys. These figures
are based on a State of Utah publication
titled “The Utah Guide for the Seismic
Improvement of Unreinforced Masonry
Buildings” and may be viewed online at
http://homelandsecurity.utah.gov/haz-
ards/earthquake.htm.

(Photos 1 and 2 by O. Kasteler, courtesy of 5

the Deseret News; photos 3 and 4 courtesy
of the Salt Lake Tribune; photo 5 courtesy
of Craig dePolo, Nevada Bureau of Mines
and Geology)

27
BEFORE A QUAKE
WHAT SHOULD I DO?

DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON

STEP 5 Protect Yourself During

Earthquake Shaking
If you are indoors, when you feel
strong earthquake shaking, drop
to the floor, take cover under a
sturdy desk or table, and hold
on to it firmly until the shaking
The previous pages have concentrated on In a public building or theater stops.
getting you ready for future earthquakes DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON if possible.
in Utah, but what should you do when the Ifprotect
in a theater seat, duck down and
your head and neck with your
shaking starts? arms. Don’t try to leave until the shaking
is over. Then walk out slowly, watching
for fallen debris or anything that could
fall on you in aftershocks.

If you are indoors...

If you are outdoors...
• DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON. If you
are not near a desk or table, drop to Move to a clear area if you can do so
the floor against an interior wall and safely; avoid buildings, power lines, trees,
and other hazards. Always assume fallen (Photo courtesy of USGS)
protect your head and neck with
power lines are live.
your arms. Below a dam
Dams can fail during a major earthquake.
• Avoid exterior walls, windows,
hanging objects, mirrors, tall
Near tall buildings Catastrophic failure is unlikely, but if you
Windows, facades, and architectural are downstream from a dam, you should
furniture, large appliances, and
details are often the first parts of a know flood-zone information and have
cabinets filled with heavy objects.
building to collapse. Get away from this prepared an evacuation plan. For more
• Do not go outside until well after the danger zone when shaking starts. Take information on possible flood areas,
shaking stops! refuge in a safe building or an open go to the Utah Division of Water Rights
space. Dam Safety Program at http://www.
In bed waterrights.utah.gov/cgi-bin/damview.
Hold on and stay there, protecting your exe, click on the dam of interest, and view
head with a pillow. You are less likely to Driving Dam Break Map.
be injured staying where you are. Broken When able, safely pull over to the side of
glass on the floor can cause injuries; be the road, stop, and set the parking brake. Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 6
sure to put shoes on before stepping on Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines,
signs, trees, and other things that might “THE TRIANGLE OF LIFE SURVIVAL
the floor.
collapse or fall on the vehicle. Stay inside METHOD IS THE BEST METHOD TO USE
the vehicle until the shaking is over. If INSIDE A BUILDING TO SURVIVE AN
In a high-rise building a power line falls on the vehicle, stay EARTHQUAKE.”
DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON. Avoid inside until a trained person removes the
windows. Do not use elevators. Do not False. The best survival method inside a building
hazard. is to Drop, Cover, and Hold On under a table, desk,
be surprised if sprinkler systems or fire
or chair, rather than trying to get into a survivable
alarms activate. void next to a large, bulky object as advocated by
In a stadium the Triangle of Life method. The Drop, Cover, and
At work Stay at your seat and protect your head Hold On survival method protects individuals
DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON. Know your and neck with your arms. Don’t try to from objects falling from walls and shelves. It
leave until the shaking is over. Then exit also provides a level of protection from structural
workplace’s earthquake safety plan and
slowly, avoiding debris and watching for failures. If a table or desk is not available, sit
put it into action. When safe, move to a down with your back against an interior wall,
specified meeting location. anything that could fall in aftershocks.
using your hands and arms to protect your head
and neck.

28
DURING A QUAKE
 FOLLOW THE SEVEN STEPS TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

STEP 6 After the Earthquake, Check AFTER

SH
G o ba OCK
ck t
for Injuries and Damage ST E P o
5

Once earthquake shaking has stopped, fol- • Damaged electrical wiring—Shut suffered moderate damage.
off power at the main breaker switch If you evacuate, tell a neighbor and your
low your disaster preparedness plans (see if there is any damage to your home family point-of-contact where you are
Step 2, page 24). Most importantly: wiring. Leave the power off until the going. Take the following, if possible,
damage is repaired! (Your telephone when you evacuate:
book also has information on this
topic.) Bring to a shelter:
Check for injuries • Downed utility lines—If you see oo Personal disaster supply kits (see
downed power lines, consider them STEP 3, page 25).
NOTE: The manual in your first aid kit and energized and keep yourself and oth- oo Supply of water, food, and snacks.
the front pages of your telephone book ers well away from them. Never touch oo Blanket, pillow, and air mattress or
have instructions on first aid measures. downed power lines or any objects in sleeping pad.
• Check yourself for serious injuries contact with them! oo Change of clothing and a jacket.
before helping others. Protect your oo Towel and washcloth.
mouth, nose, and eyes from dust. • Falling items—Beware of heavy oo Diapers, formula, food, and other
• If a person is bleeding, put direct pres- items tumbling off shelves when you supplies for infants.
sure on the wound. Use clean gauze open closet and cupboard doors. oo A few family pictures or other small
or cloth, if available. • Spills—Use extreme caution; when in comfort items, such as dolls or teddy
• If a person is not breathing, adminis- doubt, leave your home. Spilled med- bears for children.
ter rescue breathing. icines, drugs, or other relatively non- oo Personal identification and copies
• If a person has no pulse, begin CPR toxic substances can be cleaned up. of household and health insurance
(cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Potentially harmful materials, such as information.
• Do not move seriously injured per- bleach, lye, garden chemicals, paint, oo Books and games (especially for chil-
sons, unless they are in immediate and gasoline or other flammable liq- dren).
danger of further harm. uids should be isolated or covered with
• Cover injured persons with blankets an absorbent material, such as dirt or However, do not bring
or additional clothing to keep them cat litter. • Pets (service animals for people with
warm. disabilities are allowed—bring food
• Damaged masonry—Stay away from for them).
Check for damage causing brick chimneys and walls. They may • Large quantities of unnecessary cloth-
be weakened and could topple dur-
hazardous conditions ing aftershocks. Don’t use a fireplace
ing or other personal items.
• Valuables that might be lost, stolen,
with a damaged chimney, as this or take up needed space.
• Fire—If possible, put out small fires in could start a fire or trap toxic gases in
your home or neighborhood immedi- your home.
ately. Call for help, but don’t wait for
the fire department.
• Gas leaks—Turn off the gas only if
If your home is seriously
you suspect a leak because of broken damaged
pipes or detect the odor or sound of
leaking natural gas. Use a manual gas If your home is structurally unsafe or
shut-off wrench to close your main threatened by a fire or other secondary If you suspect a gas
gas valve by turning it counterclock- disaster, you need to evacuate. However, leak, use a manual
wise. Don’t turn gas back on by your- shelters may be overcrowded and ini- gas shut-off
self—wait for the gas company! (Your tially lack basic services, so do not leave wrench.
telephone book has information on home just because utilities are out of ser-
this topic.) vice or your home and its contents have

29
AFTER A QUAKE
WHAT SHOULD I DO? A F T E RS H O
CK
G o b a c k to
ST E P 5

STEP 7 When Safe, Continue to Follow

Your Disaster-Preparedness Plan
Once you have met your and your family’s Check your food and water supplies teleregistration, call 1-800-621-FEMA
(3362).
immediate needs after the next strong • Ifuppower is off, plan meals so as to use
refrigerated and frozen foods first. If • If you cannot live at your home, set up
Utah earthquake, continue to follow your you keep the door closed, food in your an alternative mailing address with the
freezer may be good for a couple of post office.
disaster-preparedness plan (see Step 2, page
days.
24). • If your water is off, you can drink from
water heaters, melted ice cubes, or If you can’t stay in your home
canned vegetables. Avoid drinking
The first days after the quake the water from swimming pools or hot The American Red Cross offers immediate
tubs; use it to fight fires. emergency assistance with housing needs.
In the days following a damaging quake, The Red Cross also supports shelter opera-
pay special attention to the following: tions prior to a presidential declaration of
The first weeks after the a federal disaster.
Safety first
• Do not re-enter your home until you earthquake
Once a presidential declaration has been
know it is safe.
• This is a time of transition. Although issued, FEMA may activate the Assistance
• Be sure there are no gas leaks at your
aftershocks may continue, you will for Individuals and Households Program.
home before using open flames
now work toward getting your life, This program includes:
(lighters, matches, candles, or grills) or
your home and family, and your rou- • Home-repair cash grants; the maximum
operating any electrical or mechanical
tines back in order. Emotional care federal grant available is $28,800 for all
device that could create a spark (light
and recovery are just as important as individual and family assistance.
switches, generators, chain saws, or
healing physical injuries and rebuilding • Housing assistance in the form of
motor vehicles).
a home. Make sure your home is safe to reimbursement for short-term lodging
• Check for chemical spills, faulty elec-
occupy and not in danger of collapse in expenses at a hotel or motel.
trical wiring, and broken water lines.
aftershocks. If you were able to remain • Rental assistance for as long as 18
Water in contact with faulty wiring is a
in your home or return to it after a few months in the form of cash payment
shock hazard.
days, you will have a variety of tasks for a temporary rental unit or a manu-
• Unplug broken or toppled light fixtures
to accomplish while re-establishing factured home.
or appliances. These could start fires
routines: • If no other housing is available, FEMA
when electricity is restored.
may provide mobile homes or other
• Never use the following indoors: camp Tasks temporary housing.
stoves, kerosene or gas lanterns or • If your gas was turned off, you will need
heaters, gas or charcoal grills, or gas to arrange for the gas company to turn
generators, as these can release deadly it back on.
carbon monoxide gas or be a fire hazard • If the electricity went off and then
in aftershocks. came back on, check your appliances
and electronic equipment for damage.
Be in communication • If water lines broke, look for water
• Turn on your portable or car radio and
damage.
listen for information and safety advi-
• Locate or replace critical documents
sories.
that may have been misplaced, dam-
• Place all phones back on their cradles.
aged, or destroyed.
• Call your out-of-area contact, tell
• Contact your insurance agent or com- FEMA mobile homes being set up in Port Char-
them your status, and then stay off the
pany to begin your claims process. lotte, Florida, to provide temporary housing
phone—emergency responders need for victims of Hurricane Charley (August 2004).
• Contact the Federal Emergency Man-
the phone lines for life-saving commu- Nearly a year after the storm, these trailers were
agement Agency (FEMA) to find out
nications. still being used. (Photo courtesy of FEMA)
about financial assistance. For FEMA
• Check on your neighbors.

30
AFTER A QUAKE
 WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

A Review of Money Matters:

Financial Impacts of Earthquakes
Following a quake, disaster aid may not be immediately available, so you should
plan ahead. If you have prepared a financial disaster recovery plan, you are more
likely to recover successfully after a quake. Financial recovery planning resources
are available from:
·Operation Hope Emergency Financial First Aid Kit:
http://www.ncua.gov/Publications/brochures/EmergencyFinancialFirstAidKit.pdf
·American Red Cross—Disaster Recovery: A Guide to Financial Issues (2003):
http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared/FinRecovery/
·Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
http://www.fema.gov/about/process
·Small Business Administration:
http://www.sba.gov/disaster_recov/index.html

Your financial disaster recovery kit

After a damaging earthquake, you will need copies of essential financial documents, as well
as emergency cash. Keep these items together, current, and stored in a fire-proof document
safe. Consider purchasing a home safe or renting a safe deposit box. Some essential items
in your financial disaster recovery kit are:

oo Birth certificates. oo Insurance policies. Don’t be fooled!—Myth number 7

oo Marriage license/divorce papers and oo An inventory of your household
child custody papers. possessions.
oo Passports and driver’s licenses. oo Appraisals of valuable jewelry, art,
oo Social security cards. antiques, and heirlooms.
oo Naturalization papers and residency oo Home improvement records.
documents. oo A backup of critical files on your
oo Military/veteran’s papers. computer (also keep a copy at work).
oo Critical medical information. oo A list of names, phone numbers, and
“I DON’T NEED TO WORRY ABOUT
oo Cash, in the event ATM or bank e-mail addresses of critical personal
EARTHQUAKES—
services are disrupted. and business contacts.
THE GOVERNMENT WILL SAVE ME!”
oo Certificates for stocks, bonds, and oo Deeds, titles, and other ownership
other investments. records for property such as homes, Many people wrongly believe that the U.S.
oo Bank statements. autos, RVs, and boats.
government will take care of all their financial
oo Credit card numbers. oo Powers of attorney, including health-
needs if they suffer losses in an earthquake. The
truth is that federal disaster assistance is only
oo A list of phone numbers for financial care powers of attorney.
available if the president formally declares a
institutions and credit card companies oo Wills or trust documents.
disaster. Even if you do get disaster assistance,
where you have accounts.
it is usually a loan that you must repay, with
interest, in addition to mortgages and other
For help in the first week after an financial obligations you still owe, even on
earthquake, contact: Utah Division of Homeland Security:
damaged property. If you don’t qualify for loans,
http://publicsafety.utah.gov/ grants may be available to you. However, these
Your county office of emergency services
homelandsecurity/ are only designed to meet your most immediate
American Red Cross:
Federal Emergency Management Agency needs, not to replace your losses (see pages 18
http://utahredcross.org
1-800-328-9272 (FEMA): and 19).
http://www.fema.gov/assistance

31
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Earthquake Information Who monitors Utah’s earthquakes?

on the Web Seismic monitoring in the Utah region is conducted

by the University of Utah Seismograph Stations in
partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey as part of the
After an earthquake, knowing more about what Advanced National Seismic System.
just happened can reduce fears and help you
understand what to expect next. Online earthquake
For more information go to:
information products include:
http://quake.utah.edu/
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/research/monitoring/anss/
Location and magnitude of recent
earthquakes
Map of recent earthquakes
Within 1 to 2 minutes of an earthquake, its location in the Wasatch Front and
and magnitude are available at several Web sites, Yellowstone Park regions,
including: one day after a magnitude
3.4 quake 20 miles east–
http://quake.utah.edu/ northeast of Kaysville, Utah,
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/ on December 20, 2006.

“ShakeMap”
Within 5 to 10 minutes of most felt earthquakes
(magnitude 3.0 and greater in the Wasatch Front
area), a “ShakeMap”is posted on the Web. This map
shows the range of shaking intensities across a
region. Every quake has only a single magnitude,
but it produces a wide range of shaking intensity
values over the area in which it is felt.
”ShakeMap” for the
ShakeMaps use data from seismic instruments December 2006
to provide a rapid picture of where the strongest quake near
shaking occurred. These maps help to identify Kaysville, Utah.
areas where a quake’s impact is greatest and are
used by emergency managers to speed disaster
response. ShakeMaps are available at:
http://quake.utah.edu/shake/
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/shakemap/

“Did You Feel It?”—Tell us what you felt!

Personal experiences of the effects of an earth-
quake are very valuable to scientists. When you
have felt a quake, please report your observations
by using a quick survey found on the U.S. Community Internet Intensity Map
(“Did You Feel It?”) for the December
Geological Survey “Did You Feel It?” Web site at 2006 quake near Kaysville, Utah.
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/dyfi/. Although the quake originated
When you fill out the survey, your observations under the Wasatch Range, it
of actual damage and shaking are combined produced light shaking along the
with those of thousands of other people. The Wasatch Front from Ogden to Salt
Lake Valley. More than 400 people
quake’s shaking intensities, derived from these reported their observations on this
observations, are displayed by ZIP code on a quake online.
“Community Internet Intensity Map.”

32
 WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Glossary
Aftershocks. Earthquakes that follow on Earth’s surface and on humans Seiche. Waves “sloshing” in a lake as a
the largest shock of an earthquake and their structures. The Modified result of earthquake ground shaking.
sequence. They are smaller than the Mercalli Intensity scale, which uses Waves caused by landsliding into a
“mainshock” and can occur over a Roman numerals, is one way scientists reservoir or displacement of the lake
period of weeks, months, or years. In measure intensity. bed are termed a surge.
general, the larger the mainshock,
the larger and more numerous the Landslide. A mass movement of soil, Seismic hazard. The potential
aftershocks and the longer they will mud, and (or) rock down a slope. for damaging effects caused by
continue. earthquakes. The level of hazard
Liquefaction. The process that depends on the magnitude and
Crust. Earth’s outermost layer occurs when an earthquake shakes
frequency of likely quakes, the distance
consisting of rigid oceanic and wet sandy soil until it behaves like a
from the fault that could cause quakes,
continental tectonic plates. liquid, allowing sand to “boil up” to the
and geologic conditions at a site.
surface, buildings to sink, or sloping
Epicenter. The point on Earth’s surface ground to move.
above where an earthquake begins at Seismic risk. The chance of injury,
depth in Earth’s crust. Magnitude (M). A number that damage, or loss resulting from seismic
represents the size of an earthquake, hazards. There is no risk, even in a
Fault. A fracture or crack along which as determined from seismographic region of high seismic hazard, if there
the two sides slide past one another. observations. An increase of one unit are no people or property that could
of magnitude (for example, from 4.6 be injured or damaged by a quake.
Fault rupture. The area of Earth to 5.6) corresponds approximately to a
through which fault movement occurrs thirty-fold increase in energy released Seismograph. A sensitive instrument
during an earthquake. For large (by definition, a two-unit increase in that detects and records seismic waves
quakes, the section of the fault that magnitude —for example, from 4.7 generated by an earthquake.
ruptures may be several hundred miles to 6.7—represents a thousand-fold
in length. Ruptures may or may not increase in energy). Quakes smaller Strike-slip fault. A generally near-
extend to the ground surface. than magnitude 2.5 generally are not vertical fault along which the two sides
felt by humans. move horizontally past each other. The
Fault scarp. A steep, linear break or most famous example is California’s
slope formed where a fault ruptures Mainshock. The largest quake of San Andreas fault.
the ground surface. an earthquake sequence, possibly
preceded by smaller foreshocks and Surface faulting (surface fault
Fault segment. A part of a fault that is commonly followed by aftershocks. rupture). Propagation of an
thought to rupture independently of
earthquake-generating fault rupture to
other parts of the fault. One or more Mantle. The layer of heated viscous
the surface, displacing the surface and
segments may rupture in a single rock between Earth’s crust and core.
forming a fault scarp.
earthquake.
Normal fault. An inclined fault along
Tectonic plate. Earth’s outer shell is
Foreshock. An earthquake which the upper side moves downward
that precedes the largest quake relative to the lower side. Utah’s composed of large, relatively strong
(“mainshock”) of an earthquake Wasatch fault is a good example. “plates” that move relative to one
sequence. Foreshocks may occur another. Movements on the faults that
seconds to weeks before the Parapet. A wall-like barrier at the edge define plate boundaries produce most
mainshock. Not all mainshocks are of a roof. earthquakes.
preceded by foreshocks.
Retrofit. Strengthening an existing Tectonic subsidence. Downdropping
Intensity. A measure of ground structure to improve its resistance to and tilting of a basin floor on the
shaking describing the local severity the effects of earthquakes. downdropped side of a fault during an
of an earthquake in terms of its effects earthquake.
33
ONLINE RESOURCES
Why should I care? (pages 1-11)
Earthquakes & Utah: http://geology.utah.gov/online/pdf/pi-48.pdf
Overview of Fault Movement in the Western United States:
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/imw/imw_bnr_faults/
Recent Earthquakes in Utah: http://quake.utah.edu/
Earthquakes and Geologic Hazards: http://geology.utah.gov/utahgeo/hazards/index.htm
Earthquake Information Center: http://quake.utah.edu/EQCENTER/eqcenter.htm
University of Utah Seismograph Stations: http://quake.utah.edu
Utah Geological Survey: http://geology.utah.gov
Utah Seismic Safety Commission: http://www.ussc.utah.gov
United States Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/

Why should I prepare? (pages 12-19) and What should I do? (pages 20-30)
American Red Cross: http://utahredcross.org
Be Ready Utah: http://beready.utah.gov
Citizen Corps: http://citizencorps.utah.gov
Federal Emergency Management Agency: http://www.fema.gov
Structural Engineers Association of Utah: http://www.seau.org
United States Department of Homeland Security: http://www.ready.gov/business
Utah Association of Contingency Planners: http://www.acputah.org
Utah Division of Homeland Security: http://publicsafety.utah.gov/homelandsecurity/

What else should I know?(pages 31-33)

Did you feel it? – Report it!: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/dyfi/
Utah ShakeMaps: http://quake.utah.edu/shake/

FUNDING ORGANIZATIONS

USGS