Preparing for an earthquake includes constructing critical structures such as schools, hospitals, dams, and bridges so that they are able to survive the maximum level of shaking likely to occur at the site; developing a plan for coordinating activities among emergency response agencies; developing plans of action for schools, businesses, and homes; and educating everyone about earthquakes and what can be done to lessen their potentially disastrous effects.
The Indiana Geological Survey has worked with the city of Evansville to gather data about the shaking potential of parts of the city, and therefore, where best to locate critical facilities. Evansville is currently requiring structure designs that will withstand a magnitude 7 earthquake. People living in other communities throughout southwestern Indiana would do well to follow at least the basic steps dictated by the earthquake hazard.
Local and regional officials should take the lead to lessen the risk to citizens and their property. Building inspectors can be trained to notice structural problems and conduct structural evaluations (see Training Local Officials in Rapid Visual Screening of Seismically Hazardous Buildings). A variety of publications is available from the Applied Technology Council, a nonprofit organization that disseminates the results of engineering research to withstand earthquakes.
The earthquake preparedness efforts of several states, including Indiana, are coordinated by the Central United States Earthquake Consortium (CUSEC).