Shake, Rattle and Roll...

So, how many of you were jolted today???  Well, it definitely was an interesting event for many of us especially for the little ones who have never experienced an earthquake.  If you get a chance, ask Courtney her experience... it's pretty funny :)

In times like this when you're child asks you, "I'm afraid of going to sleep because of the earthquake,"  I am glad that I have a strong testament of our Heavenly Father.  I know it's hard for a child to understand that He will be watching over us when these things happen, but it definitely is a teaching opportunity that should be taken advantage of.  

Not only is this a great chance for you to talk to your child about why these things happen, but it also an important reminder to see if you are prepared: both physically and spiritually.  We know that when disasters happen, no matter how small, our faith is tested.  We can each be shaken up in different ways and no matter what comes crashing down we must remember to never let our foundation crumble.  We know that our foundation starts with a firm belief in our Father in Heaven and the rest is built upon that.  However, if that foundation has cracks, expect that it will be difficult to hold the rest of that structure up when the next rattling event happens.  But, fear not, we can always retro fit that structure through prayer, reading your scriptures and solidifying your testimony.    

With that comes the physical preparedness... are we ready when a natural disaster hits?  Is our storage "center" up to date?  I know we are behind on what we should have prepared and today was definitely a reminder to get our family up to par.  If you haven't started it's never too late because you never know what's going to sneak up on you next.

Here are some good tips on what to do when an earthquake hits:

• If you're indoors, stay there. Get under -- and hold onto --a desk or table, or stand against an interior wall. Stay clear of exterior walls, glass, heavy furniture, fireplaces and appliances. The kitchen is a particularly dangerous spot. If you're in an office building, stay away from windows and outside walls and do not use the elevator. 
   

• If you're outside, get into the open. Stay clear of buildings, power lines or anything else that could fall on you. 
   

• If you're driving, move the car out of traffic and stop. Avoid parking under or on bridges or overpasses. Try to get clear of trees, light posts, signs and power lines. When you resume driving, watch out for road hazards. 
   

• If you're in a mountainous area, beware of the potential for landslides. Likewise, if you're near the ocean, be aware that tsunamis are associated with large earthquakes. Get to high ground. 
   

• If you're in a crowded public place, avoid panicking and do not rush for the exit. Stay low and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.

  
  

  For some more interesting information I pasted the link where I copied the information above.  If anything, read the earthquake myths section which is pretty interesting.
  

  
  

  http://www.consrv.ca.gov:80/index/Earthquakes/Pages/qh_earthquakes_what.aspx