3.6 Magnitude Earthquake Felt in Lowcountry

The U.S. Geological Survey has confirmed that a 3.6 magnitude earthquake occurred in Dorchester County at 7:42 a.m. today. The epicenter of the earthquake was four miles south-southwest of Summerville, and was felt throughout the Tri-county area of Berkeley, Dorchester and Charleston Counties. For specifics on this Earthquake, CLICK HERE.

At this time, there have been only minor reports of damage. Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester County officials are working closely with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and federal partners.

RESIDENTS SHOULD REPORT ANY DAMAGES TO THEIR COUNTY

Charleston County: (843) 202-7400
Berkeley County: (843) 719-4166
Dorchester County: (843) 832-0341

INFORMATION ON WHAT TO DO DURING AND AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

What to do when an earthquake occurs:

If indoors:

Take cover under a piece of heavy furniture or against an inside wall and hold on.

Stay inside.

The most dangerous thing to do during the shaking of an earthquake is to try to leave the building because objects can fall on you.

If outdoors:

Move into the open, away from buildings, street lights, and utility wires.
Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops.

If in a moving vehicle:

Stop quickly and stay in the vehicle.

Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, overpasses or utility wires.

Once the shaking has stopped, proceed with caution. Avoid bridges or ramps that might have been damaged by the quake.

What to do after an earthquake occurs:

Be prepared for aftershocks

Although smaller than the main shock, aftershocks cause additional damage and may bring weakened structures down. Aftershocks can occur in the first hours, days, weeks, or even months after the quake.

Help injured or trapped persons

Give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.

Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the latest emergency information.

Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance - infants, the elderly and people with disabilities.

Stay out of damaged buildings - Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches or gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from other chemicals.

Open closet and cupboard doors cautiously.

Inspect the entire length of chimneys carefully for damage. Unnoticed damage could lead to a fire.

Inspecting Utilities in a Damaged Home

Check for gas leaks - If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor’s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.

Look for electrical system damage - If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.

Check for sewage and water lines damage - If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.

Helpful Links to track and report Earthquakes:
Earthquake Hazzards Program
Real Time US Earthquake Maps
Earthquake Notification Service

**Also, now would be a good time to review and/or update your homeowners policies to ensure you have the coverage that you need**