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Southern Illinois and neighboring states got an unexpected wake-up call in the early morning hours of April 18, 2008 when a 5.2-magnitute earthquake rippled outward from West Salem, rocking homes and businesses across the region and triggering alarm in cities as far away as Milwaukee and Atlanta. Although most people associate earthquakes with California, the April quake serves as a reminder that our region is a hotbed of seismic activity caused by the Wabash Valley and New Madrid fault systems. Since we can't predict exactly when or where an earthquake will strike, the best defense is to be prepared. Ready on the Homefront, a 1991 documentary produced by David Kidd, gives families basic information about how to prepare their homes and stay safe in the event of an earthquake. The program is hosted by Renee Dillard and Ray Hogan. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there is a 7-10 percent chance of an earthquake of 7.0-magnitude or higher striking the region, and a 25-40 percent chance of an earthquake of 6.0 or higher occurring. Said SIUC geology professor Harvey Henson in a May 4, 2008 interview with Southern Illinoisan reporter Adam Testa, "These small earthquakes are an opportunity to remind Southern Illinoisans that we are at risk. We don't need to be afraid, but we need to be aware." Ready on the Homefront was partially funded by FEMA.

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