A weekly round-up of news, articles and surveys to make your next emergency better. Have a suggestion for the round-up? Contact me at abetteremergency@gmail.com.

Leading off this earthquake-heavy round-up is Geography in the News: New Madrid Earthquake. Familiarize yourself with this event and the ripple affects as it will be a game changer in the United States. While not showing a New Madrid event, this article offers a nice representation of the wave affect described.

Should this, Medieval Castle Holds Secret to Earthquake Resistance, be a must read for new architects? Even if we don’t decide to build castles, there’s still something to learn. In the meantime, Los Angeles councilmen look for solutions to earthquake retrofits.

The need for earthquake solutions is real. This points out that 1500 schools are under high risk in case of earthquake. Architect teaches how to disaster-proof homes, offers solutions for home owners. A step in the right direction.

An opportunity to set up sustainable, less disaster-prone cities suggests that disasters can offer communities a fresh start. And State Agencies Seek Disaster Relief Map of Vulnerable Residents seems to finally incorporate real information into active disaster planning. We need more of this.

As a developing country with more than their share of events, it’s good to read how Nicaragua improves ability to respond to natural disasters. I hope the funds alleviate the suffering of those least able to cope.

Read An Emotional response To Earthquakes. I think we should pay more attention to what motivates people to actively prepare for earthquakes. I was also interested to read A Big Downside To Unprecedented Payoffs For Fukushima Refugees. Looks like “emotional toll” is worth more than I thought.

I have mixed feelings about this: Christie Administration And The Salvation Army Announce Purchase Of Three Feeding Trucks To Provide Food To Residents During Large-Scale Emergencies. I’m a big believer in fostering a return to normalcy after a disaster, and would prefer to contract with local food vendors to prepare food to serve meals instead. Do you have an opinion?