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e-Journal

Earthquake Safety (p. 306)


Step 1. Questions

Earthquakes are frightening and dangerous events. However, there are things you can do to stay safe during an earthquake. Sharing this important safety information with others can also help to lessen the damage caused by earthquakes.

Write an explanatory report about how to stay safe during an earthquake. To do this, you will research earthquake safety tips online. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • What are the signs of an earthquake?
  • How can you protect yourself and others during an earthquake?
  • What are some things or places you should avoid during an earthquake?
  • What should one do immediately after an earthquake?
  • What other safety tips should earthquake victims follow?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites listed in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

You may use search engines to research other Web sites. Or research earthquake safety at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.


Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn how to use search engines to find information.


Earthquakes for Kids
The U.S. Geological Survey hosts this interactive Web site about earthquakes. First, click on THE SCIENCE OF EARTHQUAKES to learn what earthquakes are and why they happen. Then, click on LATEST QUAKES and DID YOU FEEL IT? to find out if an earthquake happened near you!
Take Notes:



Earthquake Preparedness Handbook
Do you know what to do during an earthquake? The Los Angeles City Fire Department put together this detailed handbook on earthquake preparedness. Start by clicking on EARTHQUAKE TIPS for some basic information, and then click on a few other categories. Pay attention to what kind of information they provide to help you write your own report.
Take Notes:



Earthquake Safety
This Web site was created by a meteorologist to teach kids like you about earthquake safety. The tips are organized by what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. As you read, think about how you want to organize your report. Click on EARTHQUAKES on the left for information about plate tectonics.
Take Notes:



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