Earthquake Warning

The Regional Council recently published a new Canterbury earthquake hazard map, which summarises the findings of a study of earthquake sources and likely scenarios for the region.

There is a one-in-seven probability of a magnitude six or greater earthquake anywhere in Canterbury in any year.

That’s a higher probability than being burgled, or drawing the ace of spades in any one draw.

City Council Director of Operations Ken Lawn says Christchurch is well prepared, especially with its large number of community volunteers who are trained and organised.

The four Rs set out in draft new Government legislation for emergency management — Reduction, Readiness, Response and Recovery — have all been addressed, he says.

Reduction involves work aimed at reducing the consequences of an earthquake, such as strengthening bridges and the wastewater treatment plant. It also involves reducing the likelihood of danger or damage by monitoring building practices.

John Buchan, City Council building control manager, says new buildings are being built properly in Christchurch and some older buildings, such as Christchurch Boys’ High School, have been fully preserved. However, there could be more urgency put on upgrading older buildings.

Readiness involves planning and preparing for how we will deal with an earthquake. It includes training and setting up emergency centres.

Response is the process of dealing with the immediate effects of an earthquake when it happens, and putting planning and training into action.

Recovery is what is done after an earthquake: getting the City up and running again.

Taiwan: The City Council will launch an appeal for victims of the Taiwan earthquake and for those in war- torn East Timor.

For the City Council, the recovery process involves issues like how it deals with large numbers of applications for building consent when they come in at the same time.

It also includes deciding whether to rebuild the City the same way as before.

In a major disaster, you may need to leave home in a hurry. If this happens, you should have a disaster survival kit ready.

The kit should contain: emergency clothing; food and water; special supplies for those with disabilities; a first aid kit; toilet paper; special supplies for babies; emergency lighting; an emergency radio (and batteries); pet supplies.

Each person should also have a "getaway kit". Most of the items in this are part of the disaster survival kit but other things you may need are: family documents, such as passports and birth certificates; personal hygiene items; blankets.

If you need help in a civil defence emergency, report to your nearest state primary school. And remember — read the back pages of the Yellow Pages.