Earthquakes and Portland-area schools: New safety approach draws attention

Architect Ben Kaiser has developed a new, cheap way to create safe zones for students before an earthquake begins. His system includes sturdy steel cages and early warning sensors as well as communications equipment in each zone, reports Oregon Live. Scientists forecast a magnitude 9 subduction zone earthquake in the area some time in the near future, but the cost of conventional seismic upgrade for buildings is high, because it involves reinforcing all parts of the building.