Earthquakes can't shake Airmen

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Aaron P. Vezeau
  • 157th Air Refueling Wing
PEASE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.H. --  Members of the 157th Air Refueling Wing's Safety and Risk Management office and the Installation Office of Emergency Management will participate in the Great North East Shakeout earthquake preparedness drill, Oct. 17. The drill simulates a significant earthquake event so that people can learn how to respond and protect themselves during a real event. Airmen across the base are encouraged to participate.

"It's a simple process of dropping to the floor, positioning yourself under a desk or table if possible, and holding on to a heavy objects such as the desk you are under," said Chief Master Sgt. Keith Downs, Installation Emergency manager. "It brings back 1960's memories of kids ducking from the nuclear blast. However, unlike those days, this could actually save your life."

The state is not immune to seismic disturbance. Although not frequent in New England, earthquakes can strike without warning. According to the U.S. Geological Survey website, New England has a documented history of earthquakes as far back as 1663. The largest recorded earthquake centered in the state of N.H. occurred on Dec. 20, 1940 and Dec. 24, 1940. Both were a magnitude 5.50 centered near Lake Ossipee, N.H. The town of Tamworth, on the edge of the Ossipee Mountains in central Carroll County, sustained the most damage, which included structural damage to many homes and businesses, such as cracked foundations, destroyed chimneys, broken pipes, and broken furniture.

There have been other earthquakes in N.H. of lesser magnitude that have occurred and also produced damaging effects in the last year. An earthquakes of 2.5 magnitude was centered in Contoocook, N.H. on Oct. 11, 2013 and a 4.0 magnitude in Hollis Center, Maine on Oct 17, 2012 was felt throughout N.H. and as far south as Connecticut.

"Basic knowledge and preparation is the key to safety." said Lt. Col Jeffrey Denton, Chief of Wing Safety and Risk Management. "Please take some time to think about earthquake safety and talk to your friends and family members so they are prepared."

And being prepared could save your life.