You Can Survive an Earthquake

01/17/15

You Can Survive an Earthquake.

Living in the Southern California area, we are all too familiar with earthquakes. According to the Southern California Earthquake Center, there are more than 200 identified earthquake faults in the Southern California area. Most earthquakes are so minor in nature that we are not aware of them. However, every once in a while, we experience an earthquake strong enough to shake our homes, knock down a wall or worse.

The key to surviving an earthquake is preparation, proper action and follow up. Prior to a major earthquake there are many things we can do to prepare ourselves. These things include:

1. Having a plan for reuniting with your family after an earthquake.

2. Be familiar with the shut off procedures for your gas, water and electricity.

3. Prepare an emergency kit consisting of water food and extra prescription medication, to last at least 7 days.

4. Secure heavy items such as water heaters to the wall studs.

5. Make sure heavy personal items are stored on the lower shelves.

During the earthquake remember the following:

Stay calm.

1. If you are indoors, stay indoors. Stay away from windows and try to take cover under a table or door frame.

2. If you are outdoors, stay outdoors. Stay away from buildings, power lines and trees.

3. If you are in your car, pull over and stop. Stay away from power lines, tunnels and bridges.

After the earthquake occurs:

1. Be aware of debris, broken glass and items that may fall from cupboards or closets.

2. Assist the injured.

3. If you smell gas or see water leaks turn them off at the main shut off valve. If you see signs of damage to electrical wiring, shut off the power at the control box.

4. Stay away from down power lines.

5. If you have phone service, restrict phone use to emergency communications only.

6. Restrict driving to emergency situations so you do not interfere with emergency responders.

7. Monitor the radio for instructions and important information and remember that aftershocks often follow large earthquakes.

With preparation, proper action and follow up you can increase your chance of earthquake survival and decrease the possibility of serious injury.



For detailed information regarding disaster preparedness refer to the Los Angeles County Emergency Survival Guide http://lacoa.org/pdf/emergencysurvivalguide-lowres.pdf

Contact Information: Sergeant Byron Ward - 951-201-5699,