Community Corner

5 Things to Know After an Earthquake

Just because the shaking ends, does not mean it's over.

By now, many of you know, even if you did not feel the shaking yourself, that around 1:50 p.m. Tuesday. What you may not know is that there are still precautions you should take even after an earthquake is felt.

Here are five things you need to know after an earthquake, as posted on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website:

  1. You Need to Know Aftershocks May Occur: The shakings of aftershocks are typically not as strong as the earthquake itself but could cause damage. Afterschocks, according to FEMA, can occur anywhere from hours to months after the initial earthquake.
  2. You Need to Know Phone Service Can Be Spotty: Police departments have reported some trouble in telephone signals as a result of Tuesday's earthquake. FEMA advises that you use your phone for emergency calls only after an earthquake to free up the phone lines for emergency callers.
  3. You Need to Know Items May Have Shifted In Your Home: Be careful when opening cabinets and closet doors as items may have shifted in your home during the earthquake and may fall out on top of you.
  4. You Need to Know to Check Your Chimney and Utilities For Damage: If damage was unknowingly caused to your chimney during the quake, it could later cause fire damage. Make sure nothing is obstructing the chimney, if you have one. Also check to make sure your utility lines were not damaged, as these could also cause fire damage if frayed.
  5. You Need to Know to Check On Your Neighbors: Especially elderly neighbors who may be scared by what had happened. Make sure that they are well and that their home is intact.
  6. BONUS: You Need to Know to Stay Informed: Follow information about the earthquake and its after-effects on Morristown Patch.

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