Insurance Information Network of California - http://www.iinc.org/
Little Ones Should Prepare For The Big One
http://www.iinc.org/articles/28/1/Little-Ones-Should-Prepare-For-The-Big-One/Page1.html
Published on 10/17/2000
 
The insurance industry is reaching out to those who probably don't even know what the word insurance means, hoping to educate them about an even bigger word - earthquake.  It has been 11 years since the Loma Prieta earthquake and more than six years since the Northridge quake. Since most kids are too young to have experienced those temblors, many would be unprepared if the big one struck today. 
Little Ones Should Prepare For The Big One
Activity Book Teaches Kids About Quakes

The insurance industry is reaching out to those who probably don't even know what the word insurance means, hoping to educate them about an even bigger word - earthquake.

It has been 11 years since the Loma Prieta earthquake and more than six years since the Northridge quake. Since most kids are too young to have experienced those temblors, many would be unprepared if the big one struck today.

In recognition of Earthquake Preparedness Month, the Insurance Information Network of California and the California Earthquake Authority have developed an interactive coloring book designed to teach kids how to prepare for and stay safe during an earthquake.

Kids typically get their parents involved in what they learn - working under this theory the insurance industry is encouraging entire families to take steps to prepare for an earthquake. "Kids are very enthusiastic about learning and hopefully that enthusiasm will rub off on their parents," said IINC Executive Director Candysse Miller. "By reaching out to kids, we're reaching whole families."

The activity book teaches kids basic preparedness tips such as how to create a household emergency kit and an emergency contact list and the importance of having a three-day supply of food and water on hand. It also discusses what to do during an earthquake and after the shaking stops. In the book, kids are instructed how to duck, cover and hold - an activity they are encouraged to practice with their parents at home.

"Earthquakes are a fact of life in California and its never too early to start educating children about what to do when an earthquake strikes," said Mark Leonard, Legislative and Public Affairs Manager for the California Earthquake Authority. "These coloring books are a great way to show children, and their parents, that there are simple and effective ways to protect yourself from harm in the next quake."

The activity books are available at no charge through the IINC web site at www.iinc.org or by calling (800) 397-1679.

The CEA is a privately financed, publicly managed entity funded by insurance companies and customer premiums. It has over $7.2 billion to pay claims resulting from residential earthquake damage. Insurance companies that provide earthquake coverage for approximately 70 percent of California's homeowners are participants in the CEA.