Yes, an earthquake could happen here

The destructive earthquake near Wells this week wasn't felt physically in this region of Nevada, but we hope it does have one significant impact - getting people here to prepare.

There's certainly no need for panic, but there's justification for calmly making preparations, based on previous earthquakes and the potential for more.

Here's a conclusion drawn from a 1997 paper authored by UNR and the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology: "... the earthquake hazard and potential in the Reno-Carson City urban corridor should be considered high, and earthquake risk preparedness, planning, and mitigation efforts are well warranted."

And while our communities have disaster plans in place, help might be slow in coming to the region, said Carson City Fire Chief Stacey Giomi, the city's emergency management director, because nearby communities will be affected as well.

Fortunately, much of that preparation is not difficult:

• Prepare a plan and discuss it with your family. Make sure everyone knows how to escape and where to take cover so nothing can fall on them, as well as how to turn off gas, electricity and water.

• Check your homeowners insurance to see if you are covered for earthquake damages.

• Bolt bookcases and cabinets to walls, strap the water heater to wall studs and consider installing strong latches on cupboards.

• Prepare a first aid kit with food, water, medical supplies, flashlights and other items.

We recommend you take these steps and others to prepare. You can pick up the Carson City Fire Department's Preparedness Guide at the Carson City Fire Department on Stewart Street and, on the Web, you can visit the Red Cross Web site at www.redcross.org/index.html. Click on "Preparedness."

• This editorial represents the view of the Nevada Appeal Editorial Board.