SACRAMENTO—
Some people said they could feel the earth shaking, as the 5.7 magnitude quake made its way through Northern California.
There were even reports of damage near the earthquake’s epicenter in Plumas County.
The California Earthquake Authority says on average, more than 100 earthquakes happen each day in California. Some of the quakes are large enough to cause damage to your home. It makes you wonder if earthquake insurance is worth it.
“Rates vary depending on where you live,” said Tully Lehman, Information Officer with Insurance Information Network of California.
“If you live in the Central Valley, there’s low risk for earthquakes. It can happen and you can purchase earthquake insurance.”
If you don’t want to shell out the cash, Insurance Information Network of California offers up these tips.
Before An Earthquake
- Determine the earthquake potential for your home site by looking at fault-zone maps and general soil maps. These are available at city and county planning offices. If your home is in an earthquake-prone region, contact licensed and experienced contractors to determine any mitigation steps needed.
- Most damage from earthquakes occurs from furniture or possessions toppling over.
- Move heavy items such as pictures, mirrors and tall dressers away from your bed.
- Secure tall furniture, bookcases and filing cabinets to wall studs with lag bolts or L-brackets.
- Move the heaviest objects from top to bottom shelves. Add lips to shelves to prevent items from sliding off, and secure cupboard doors with latches that will prevent the doors
from opening during an earthquake. - When possible, secure computers, television sets and stereo equipment with brackets and straps.
- Make sure overhead light fixtures are securely fastened to the ceiling.
- Take a home inventory of your possessions. Keep it in a safe location outside of your home. It is a good idea to back up the home inventory with pictures or videotape of the items, and keep receipts and appraisals.
During An Earthquake
At Home
- Most earthquakes are over in less than 30 seconds. Remain calm and stay where you are until the shaking stops.
- If you are indoors, duck or drop down to the floor and take cover under a sturdy desk or table.
- Move away from windows, fireplaces, wood stoves and heavy furniture or appliances.
- Stay inside — you may be injured going through a door or window, or be hit by falling glass, bricks or unstable facades that may fall outward from buildings.
Outside
- Move into an open area, away from buildings and utility lines. Be alert for falling rocks, landslides and runaway vehicles.
- If possible, move your car out of the flow of traffic and stop. Avoid stopping under overpasses, bridges, large trees, light posts, power lines or large signs.
- Stay inside your car until the shaking stops.