California residents are all familiar with the San Andreas fault, the intersection of tectonic plates stretching across the state. The fault line runs along California’s northern coast and makes it way south, curving inland at the Bay Area and ending in Imperial County. For decades, Californians have been awaiting the “Big One,” a high magnitude seismic event. Recent swarms of earthquakes in the Southern California region have renewed concern. It is important to know what you can do to stay safe in the event of an earthquake.
If you start to feel shaking, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table like a dining table, and hold on. Do not let go until the shaking stops. For individuals with walkers or wheelchairs, lock your wheels and rollers and cover your neck and head with your arms.
If you are not at home, there are still protective measures you can take. If you are in the car, the best thing to do is pull over and apply your parking brake. If you are outside, avoid large objects that could fall such as trees, signs, light posts, large buildings, and power lines.
Have an earthquake survival kit ready. This can be a pre-packed backpack containing supplies including copies of important documents, first aid kit, medical information and medications, small cash bills, flashlight and water. Earthquake kits can also be a larger storage box meant to hold you over if you are stuck in your home. Things to add to your stay-box include a flashlight with extra batteries, trash bags, a bucket, non-perishable food, and enough water for each person for at least three days. The recommended amount is three gallons per person per day. The American Red Cross provides a variety of Emergency Preparedness Kits ranging from $50 back packs to family and large group supplies. Visit their store site: www.redcross.org/store/emergency-preparedness/earthquake-kits
Earthquakes, like any natural disaster, are hard to predict and impossible to prevent. However, with proper planning, you can remain safe in the event of one. ■
Source: Earthquake Warning California
