A small earthquake shook Lake and McHenry Counties last night, according to information from Lake County on February 1, 2012. The earthquake, centered near the Lake/McHenry county line, is a rare occurance, but people should prepare themselves for an emergency. The Great U.S. Central Shake Out is holding an event that to bring awareness to the importance of earthquake preparedness.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is the national agency that monitors earthquakes. Information about last night's earthquake can be found at the USGS website. According to information from the USGS, the earthquake was centered in the Fox Lake/McHenry area.
Earthquakes are not that common in northern Illinois, but shaking caused by earthquakes in the central U.S. may be felt farther distances from the center because the earth's crust is more rigid here than in California, where stronger earthquakes are more common. Even though northern Illinois earthquakes are not that common, any earthquake is capable of knocking things off shelves and causing minor damage to buildings.
The earthquake is a reminder that it is important to be prepared for emergencies. Knowing what to do when an earthquake happens (Drop, Cover, and Hold On!) and practicing the actions with others, could save your life and theirs. Spend time with family, friends, and coworkers to review emergency preparadness.
Earthquakes are just one of many hazards we face. Emergency Preparedness should include reviewing the range of hazards and planning for appropriate action. Check AlertLakeCounty.com for more preparedness information. It was a year ago that a gigantic snowstorm hit the region and brought traffic to a standstill. The winter storm was another event that tested the emergency skills of people and road crews. Winter storm hits Chicago - pictures
Lake County will be participating in a large, multi-state, earthquake preparedness event next week. The Great Central U.S. Shake Out is scheduled for Tuesday, February 7. More than one million people across nine states will participate in this event. The Lake County Emergency Management Agency encourages residents, schoools, organizations and businesses to participate in the Shakeout event. See the Shakeout website for additional information.
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