Ready for big quake?

Editor's note: New estimates for what a 7.0 earthquake could do to the Wasatch Front are scary: It could kill more than 6,000 people, injure 90,000 and cause a $40 billion economic hit. In a five-part series, the Deseret Morning News describes such a future quake — as if worst-case scenarios proved to be true.

Three of every four Utahns say they have 72-hour emergency kits and have taken classes in first aid and CPR — which could save many lives if an earthquake or other large emergency strikes.

However, only one of every five Utah homeowners has earthquake insurance, showing that many are risking financial ruin if a big quake hits. Also, only one in every five Utahns has taken Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training on how neighbors can help each other safely during disasters.

That is according to a Deseret Morning News/KSL-TV poll of 627 Utah residents conducted by Dan Jones & Associates on March 27-30. The results are considered statistically accurate within 3 percentage points, plus or minus.

"Those numbers across the board are actually quite encouraging," said Brian Garrett, director of the State Office of Emergency Services. "It's comforting knowing that the citizenry is prepared to that level."

In a five-day series this week, the Deseret Morning News looked at damage that officials and computer modeling predict would occur if a 7.0 earthquake hits the Salt Lake Valley. That includes up to 6,200 deaths, 90,000 people injured and at least moderate damage to 42 percent of all structures in the quake area.

Officials predict that such a disaster would overwhelm government resources. They say how well residents would fare likely depends on their own personal and family preparedness. Today, the Deseret Morning News also provides a clip-and-save page about preparedness tips on Page C1.

The major bad spot among new poll numbers is that only 19 percent of homeowners surveyed said they have earthquake insurance. Regular homeowners insurance does not cover damage from earthquakes. An additional rider must be purchased for it.

Poll findings are in line with what major insurance companies say about Utah — with most reporting that only between 5 and 20 percent of their Utah clients have such insurance. Companies say so few buy it because it tends to be expensive and is not required by mortgage companies.

"We would encourage everyone to go back and look at what coverage they have," Garrett said.

The poll also said only 22 percent report they have taken CERT courses about how to help others safely in disasters, including light search and rescue techniques and basic medical assistance. "We would like to see that number be much higher," Garrett said.