"Triangle of Life" not appropriate for Earthquakes in Montana

With the recent activity taking place in Yellowstone National Park we have started seeing the circulation of an email from Doug Copp encouraging the concept of "Triangle of Life."  While this concept may be applicable to building techniques in some countries, it is not considered to be an appropriate action for the United States.  The commonly accepted practice of Drop, Cover, and Hold On is still considered the most appropriate action to take in Montana during an earthquake due to the construction methods used here.

The "Triangle of Life" concept does not take into account building standards employed throughout the United States.  The Earthquake Country Alliance does a good job of summarizing the issuees presented by the "Triangle of Life" concept and why Drop, Cover, and Hold On is still appropriate for the United States (Click Here).  When this concept first appeared a couple years ago, numerous organizations responded with their concerns over many key concepts that are over looked in the "Triangle of Life."  Some of their responses can be read below:

• American Red Cross Letter of Response
• Structural Engineers Association of California
• Oregon Office of Homeland Security
• California Office of Emergency Services

Information on Earthquake preparedness is available at:

• ReadyGallatin.com
• EarthQuakeCountry.info