By The Survivors Club Staff
March 5, 2010

Last week's massive earthquake in Chile caught Osvaldo Gonzales on an island just off the coast where he had been vacationing with his extended family.

Fearful that a tsunami might hit the island, the man made three boat trips to ferry his relatives back to mainland, although a cousin who operated a separate boat to help him out was not so lucky - he was swallowed by a tidal wave 30 feet high, according to The Miami Herald.

In fact, Gonzales' survival was nothing short of miraculous since his boat got stuck on the shore before he could make a final run.

"If I hadn't [got] bogged down in the mud, I would have gone back into the water," he said, quoted by the news provider. "But I saw the wave and began to run.''

As devastating earthquakes can also happen in the U.S. - where they have killed approximately 4,000 people since 1811 - The Center for Earthquake Research and Information at the University of Memphis recommends anchoring heavy objects, such as bookcases, mirrors or cabinets, to walls.

When a tremor begins, it is best to crouch under a desk or table, or stand in a stout doorway, away from windows. Those who are caught outdoors should stay away from buildings, trees, telephone and electrical lines. If on the road, it is important to drive away from underpasses and overpasses, stop in a safe area and stay inside the vehicle.

If a tsunami warning is issued, individuals should immediately head to higher ground. Fast receding waters may also be a sign of an impending tidal wave, necessitating a similar evacuation.

Those who would like to support victims of the Haiti quake can donate to the Red Cross or UNICEF.