MMDA to unveil 'shake, rattle and learn house' for quake preparedness

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will unveil Wednesday, Feb. 20, its own earthquake simulator to train its rescue personnel and educate the public, especially students, about earthquake and its effects.

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said the hydraulically operated facility, named "shake, rattle, and learn house",  which resembles a bungalow complete with a living room, furniture set, and a classroom setting, simulates seismic movement equivalent to a tremor with a  magnitude ranging from 4.0 to 8.0.

"To better understand earthquake and be prepared for it, we have to experience what it feels like to be in one. This will help raise the public’s awareness and knowledge about the earthquake phenomenon," Tolentino said.

The quake simulator is similar to the one being used by experts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration. It has a size of 3 x 3.6 meters and can seat up to 10 people.

Tolentino said the “Shake, Rattle, and Learn House” is open for use by visiting students and schoolchildren during educational tours at the MMDA and local government units.

"Earthquake simulation also teaches safe personal behavior and practice in case of an earthquake. This is a learning tool against the perils of earthquakes by providing a scenario to practice protective procedures," he said. - Dennis Carcamo