Camping at Home

Safe Shelter After an Earthquake

Major earthquakes, such as Cascadia which threatens the Oregon Coast, can cause considerable damage to structures. Significant aftershocks continue for several days following a major earthquake and can cause additional damage to weakened structures. It is advisable to shelter outside your home for at least seven days following a major earthquake to avoid injury caused by such things as collapsing structure, shifting furniture or falling fixtures.

What Is Camping At Home?

Camping at Home is exactly what it sounds like – sheltering and sleeping outside your home for some period of time. It includes preparing food safely and eating outdoors. The types of disaster which would require Camping at Home also would likely cause major disruption to our water and sanitation services. You guessed it – no running water or operating toilets. Camping at Home means being prepared to access safe water, having effective and private outdoor sanitation options and knowing how to practice proper hygiene.

Tip: Check your gear and practice setting it up regularly. Keep it in a location that will be accessible after an earthquake.

Why Prepare For Camping At Home?

Some homes and all of our local community shelters will be unsafe to occupy after the Cascadia earthquake and tsunami. In general, no home will be safe to live in immediately after this major earthquake. Even if your house appears to survive the initial earthquake and tsunami, it may be rendered unsafe by the anticipated multiple significant aftershocks. It is critical to plan for safe outdoor shelter for at least the first week following the initial earthquake to permit the aftershocks to diminish.

EVCNB offers a Camping At Home class where you will learn more about:

• When and why Camping at Home is advisable

• Shelter options

• Sleeping equipment options

• Cooking equipment options

• Lighting options