A new geological report says a fault line near the Canadian border could result in harm to citizens of the Sumas and Kendall areas.

The Boulder Creek Fault has been active for several thousand years and could be capable of producing an earthquake of a 6.8 magnitude. Previously the fault line was thought to have been dormant for as long as 30 million years.

Scientists say a quake on the fault wouldn’t have a lot of impact in Bellingham but would threaten the Abbotsford, B.C., area and the Sumas and Kendall areas.

It’s no surprise that a county on the Pacific Ring of Fire would have fault hazards. Scientists studying the latest information say earthquake hazards in Washington are among the highest in the nation.

Officials in industries such as building and planning have known of the dangers for years and are using new engineering and architectural ideas to help keep quakes here from being as devastating as they are in other parts of the world.

Still, it is important that Whatcom County be aware of the dangers — and of other dangers such as the potential for volcanic eruption of Mount Baker — and be prepared.

In the event of a major earthquake, volcanic eruption or other natural disaster, it’s unlikely that emergency officials will be able to offer help immediately. Every Whatcom County household should have an emergency kit able to keep its inhabitants alive and safe for three days.

County emergency management officials recommend the kit include:

One gallon of water per person per day. This means at least three gallons of water per person.

Enough nonperishable food to feed your family for three days.

Prescription and nonprescription medications.

A battery-powered portable radio. A first aid kit. Personal hygiene items. Clothing and bedding.

News about new fault lines should not create panic. Everyone who lives here should know that we live in an area where earthquakes can, and will, happen. Instead, the correct response is preparation.