The recent earthquakes in Haiti and Northern California remind us how important it is to be prepared– as individuals, organizations, communities, and beyond. 

Haiti: The devastation of last week’s 7.0 magnitude quake in Haiti is still being assessed, but clearly this earthquake will rank among the most destructive in history. The immense tragedy demonstrates how a natural disaster can become a man-made catastrophe due to poor construction and inadequate infrastructure. See below for how you can help.

Northern California: Last Saturday’s 6.5 earthquake off the coast of Humboldt County was smaller and centered more than 20 miles off the coast. Our strict building codes resulted in far fewer losses than if such an earthquake were to shake a less prepared country. But images of fallen furniture and other contents show how much damage can still happen. Also, videos of the earthquake show people dangerously running outside during the shaking, while others protected themselves because they practiced “drop, cover, and hold on” in school or during the Great California ShakeOut!

Now is the time to take action… to protect yourself, and help others

• Haiti - How can you help? There are many organizations working now in Haiti who need money to support their efforts. But be very cautious about emails asking for donations, which may be fradulent or have attachments with viruses. Before you give, research the organization to determine if they are legitimate and how they will use the money. 
  • The easiest approach may be to make a donation billed to your cell phone:
    • Text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross Haiti Relief Fund
    • Text QUAKE to 20222 to donate $10 to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund
  • These sites that list reputable organizations that are part of the relief effort:
    • InterAction
    • Charity Navigator

• Today is 9 months to the 2010 ShakeOut Drill on October 21, at 10:21 a.m, and registration is now open! The goal for 2010 is 10 million participants, including you. If you registered in 2009, you can login to quickly update your information and confirm your participation for 2010. 

• There are many things you can do to reduce losses from happening in your home and community. The preparedness theme for ShakeOut 2010 is “Secure Your Space”—strap furniture and large appliances to walls, secure electronics and other objects, and much more.  Learn how at daretoprepare.org.

• We want your feedback!  As a ShakeOut participant in 2009, you were sent a survey about your preparedness, what you did in your drill, and how you think ShakeOut can be improved. If you did not receive the email, visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SV2HZ7F.  

Thank you for your participation and commitment to a earthquake safety!