In light of recent events over in Haiti, it has come to the attention of many what one would do during a natural disaster, especially since Vincennes lies on a series of faults, mostly known as the Wabash River Seismic Zone. It stretches across the river, down to Evansville and into Kentucky. If a serious earthquake was ever to occur, Vincennes would disappear into the abyss. So how does one prepare for a natural disaster such as an earthquake?
According to John Streeter of the Emergency Management Agency, Vincennes works with Emergency Support Functions (known as ESFs) which are activated depending on the phase the situation is in. There are four phases: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. For instance, if a 6.0 earthquake was to occur, the police and fire department would operate from the response phase. They have to follow many checklists and procedures; one must keep in mind that natural disasters affect places others than at home, and the people who need help most must be attended to first.
Vincennes may also be cut off, since almost every road out has a bridge. However, there are PODs, places where the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the military can come in with food, water, and medicine. There are two designated POD areas, even one where aircrafts can drop supplies.
Citizens must be aware of the fact that since Vincennes is an old city, some of the building structures are not built to withstand earthquakes. There could be a severe amount of damages and individuals could even be left alone for 48 to 72 hours. In this case, one should make a “ready-kit” with food, water, toiletries, medications and possibly some money.
If this were ever to happen, VU would immediately evacuate the buildings and relocate students to the intramural field. This way students would be safe from falling debris. No students would be allowed back inside until there has been a structural review of the buildings and they have been deemed secure. However, this plan is situational: depending on when the event happens and what part of campus is hit hardest, the areas of evacuations and shelters are subject to change.
Lynn White, the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs, says that there will also be notifications to the president, provost, food services and anyone providing services to the campus so they can be aware of what has gone on and if it impacts their area.
Concerning both students and citizens, according to the VU website's Emergency Preparedness Procedure page, during an earthquake you should do these things:
If you are inside:
• Stay Calm.
• Watch for falling objects.
• Crawl under a table or desk, or stand in a doorway.
• Stay away from windows, mirrors, overhead fixtures, filing cabinets, bookcases, and electrical equipment.
If you are outside:
• Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
• If forced to stand near a building, watch for falling objects.
If you are in an automobile:
• Stop your vehicle in the nearest open area.
•Stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops.
After an Earthquake
• Remain calm.
• Be prepared for aftershocks.
• Be guided by emergency personnel. If evacuation is ordered, proceed to the nearest clear exit.
• Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in obvious immediate danger (of fire, building collapse, etc.).
• Open doors carefully. Watch for falling objects.
• Do not use elevators.
• Do not use matches or lighters.
• Avoid using telephones.
• Do not spread rumors.
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