Expert Advice | Alison Bird, Earthquake Seismologist + iWIST Board Director
In a recent iWIST Lunch & Learn session, Alison Bird, our resident expert on all things earthquakes, provided attendees with advice for living in an earthquake-prone area like Vancouver Island, and shared some essential knowledge on preparedness and earthquake hazards, debunked some common earthquake myths and described the new, national Earthquake Early Warning system, highlighting its potential to enhance safety.
Her top five tips for being earthquake ready are:
Prepare a kit, preferably for two weeks – camping equipment is a great start!
Create a plan with your family, and neighbours, including a map of tsunami hazard zones
Secure your home, strapping tall and/or heavy furniture and appliances (plus water heater) to studs and ensure heavy items are stored low
Place sturdy shoes and flashlight under the head of your bed
Practise Drop, Cover, Hold on in each room of your home
Alison has been an Earthquake Seismologist for nearly 30 years, and is also the Liaison & Outreach Officer for the Earthquake Early Warning program at Natural Resources Canada.
“iWIST is a terrific community of women from a diverse range of fields, backgrounds, and expertise. Every time I attend an iWIST event, I am struck by how amazing they are and how much fun we have together. I am thrilled this supportive organisation exists, particularly for young women in STEM”
Alison Bird, Seismologist