Earthquake Early Warning in Free-choice Learning Environments
2020–present
Project Description
We want to help keep our community safe in the event of an earthquake. That is why OMSI has partnered with the US Geological Survey (USGS) to promote public understanding of earthquake science and preparedness.
ShakeAlert(R) Earthquake Early Warning is a new tool that can promote earthquake resilience on the US West Coast. Operated by the USGS, ShakeAlert detects earthquakes quickly, so that alerts can be sent out to warn people to take protective action before strong shaking arrives.
We are working with the ShakeAlert® EPIcenter Partnership to support museums, science centers, libraries, and other free choice learning environments in helping their learners better understand how to prepare for an earthquake. To help empower institutions to engage with their communities, we are sharing resources and professional development material—together we make the entire West Coast more earthquake resilient.
Partners
US Geological Survey (USGS)
Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS)
UC Boulder Natural Hazards Center
University of Oregon
Resources & Research
Resources
ShakeAlert Quick Facts →
Printable one-pagers in English and Spanish provide key information about ShakeAlert, including how to get alerts in OR, WA, and CA.
ShakeOut at OMSI video (2021) →
In this playful video, OMSI staff demonstrate earthquake protective actions in some unusal museum spaces.
ShakeAlert Engagement Guide (2024) ↓
This guide includes information and resources for imagining, planning, and implementing educational experiences related to ShakeAlert in Free-Choice Learning Environments.
ShakeAlert Interactive Demos Activity Guide ↓
These short, hands-on earthquake activities are specifically designed for Free-Choice Learning Environments.
Designing for Disasters Activity Guide ↓
Participants create model neighborhoods that incorporate green spaces, such as bioswales and parks, to prevent pollution from flowing into a river.