01/22/13 The Marshall County Safety Committee will be conducting an Earthquake Drill in conjunction with the Great Central U.S. ShakeOut, on Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 10:15am. The drill is designed to test preparedness capabilities in the event of an earthquake in Indiana. Most people do not associate earthquakes with Indiana however, there are two major seismic zones,the New Madrid and Wabash Valley (located in Southwestern Indiana), in close proximity that could be capable of producing earthquakes at a magnitude of 7 or 8. This magnitude of earthquake would significantly damage buildings and critical infrastructures such as roads, bridges, electrical grid, and natural gas supply lines throughout much of the state, and scientist believe we are overdue for a major earthquake.
Obviously, during an actual earthquake, the ground will shake indicating that an earthquake is occurring.
Ground shaking during an earthquake is seldom the cause of injury. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by collapsing walls and roofs, flying glass and falling objects, that’s why it is extremely important for employees of Marshall County to know what to do to keep safe prior to an actual incident.
Commissioner Kevin Overmyer said, “We understand that not everyone will be able to participate in the drill, but we would like to encourage as many offices as possible to participate.”
