Yeah - I don't really agree with the argument about time to go either, but according to friends that have lived there, its how the people think - its in Allah's hands, or (name your diety here) - And they think that way - if its meant to be, its meant to be - a very deep-rooted spiritual philosophy - That's part of the reason -

I think we know better - I think living in Los Angeles area, with its building codes, and able to generally take a 5.0 with minimal damage (though severly shaken nerves) proves it. Then there is another thing Dennis mentioned - our codes are meant to withstand a 6.7? (this might be a wrong number) - what happens when its bigger? Which can very likely happen.

I guess that's why we all have those quake supplies on hand - if you are a camper you even have more supplies available like tents and sleeping bags and portable stoves.

Canie