Earthquake Preparedness 101

May 3, 2017 1:45 PM
by Lindsay Barker

The sudden jolt of Monday (May 1, 2017) night's 3.0 earthquake is a reminder that an emergency can strike at any time. Although the small earthquake did not cause any damage and many people (including myself) didn’t feel it, my hope is that it prompts households to think about the following questions.

1. What should I do during an earthquake?

When the ground starts shaking, you should Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Drop to the group, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold onto the table's leg so the table continues to cover you throughout the earthquake. If you aren’t near a table, drop to the ground and cover your head. 

If the earthquake occurs when you’re in bed, the best thing to do is to stay in bed and cover your head with a pillow until shaking stops. Practice makes perfect! Ensure your household knows where to take cover in each room of your home.

Lindsay's Helpful Hint: Have an old pair of sneakers tied to the leg of your bed and put a flashlight or glowstick inside. After an earthquake, put on these sneakers and turn on the flashlight before you get out of bed in case there is broken glass or debris. 

2. How would my household cope after an emergency?

The best way to prepare your household for an earthquake is to prepare ahead of time and discuss your plan. The Santa Monica Office of Emergency Management (OEM) recommends that every household take four steps to prepare for an emergency: get a kit, have a plan, be informed, and share! Disaster kit tips, steps to create a family emergency plan, and how to sign up for Santa Monica emergency alerts are all available on OEM's website at www.smgov.net/oem/. Be sure to customize your disaster plan and kit so it meets your household's specific needs.

Lindsay's Helpful Hint: Most households already have many of the items needed in a disaster kit but they are spread throughout the home. If you have kids, create a scavenger hunt and search for the items with your children. Together, put all of the items together in a portable bag or container, like an old suitcase, that you can easily transport if you had to evacuate your home. 

3. Are there people in my neighborhood who may have challenges after an emergency event, even a power outage?

You're only prepared as your least prepared neighbor or family member. Think about your neighborhood and if anyone might need extra assistance after an emergency. Introduce yourself to your neighbors, have an apartment or neighborhood gathering, discuss how each household is prepared for an earthquake and develop a plan to check on one another afterwards. 

Lindsay's Helpful Hint: Create a map or list of your neighbors. Note anyone that might need extra assistance, like those with disabilities, children, and even pets! Practice your neighborhood or apartment plan during a power outage or heat wave. 

 

For more information on preparing for an emergency, visit OEM's website at www.smgov.net/oem/ or call 310-458-2263.

Authored By

Lindsay Barker
Chief Resilience Officer