Recent earthquake swarms & being prepared

   A sequence of more than 50 small earthquakes shook an area near the Salton Sea this morning, and scientists have expressed concern that these earthquakes could trigger a larger earthquake on the southern section of the San Andreas Fault. State and local agencies are monitoring the situation and urge the general public to brush up on earthquake safety tips, such as those included below.

   The California Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Council (CEPEC) believes there is a 1 percent to 5 percent change of a large earthquake of 7.0 magnitude or greater occurring on the San Andreas Fault over the next few days, However, as each day passes, the risk of a large earthquake on the San Andreas decreases. Indeed, the greatest risk of such an earthquake occurring as a result of the swarm was in the first few hours of the swarm, and thus has already passed. Still, it is always wise to have an Emergency Supplies Kit, a Family Disaster Plan, and keep a supply of food and water for at least three days. More information on building these preparedness items can be found at www.sbcfire.org/oes and clicking on the Disaster Preparedness link.

Drop, Cover & Hold on Tips

• When in a HIGH-RISE BUILDING, move against an interior wall if you are not near a desk or table. Protect your head and neck with your arms. Do not use the elevators.

• When OUTDOORS, move to a clear area away from trees, signs, buildings, or downed electrical wires and poles.

• When on a SIDEWALK NEAR BUILDINGS, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster and other debris.

• When DRIVING, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops.

• When in a CROWDED STORE OR OTHER PUBLIC PLACE, move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall. Do not rush for the exit.

• When in a STADIUM OR THEATER, stay in your seat, get below the level of the back of the seat and cover your head and neck with your arms.

   No matter where you are, know how to protect yourself and your family during an earthquake. Practice taking cover as if there were an earthquake and learn the safest places in your home and work. Practice getting out of your home and check to see if the planned exits are clear and if they can become blocked in an earthquake. Practice turning off your electricity and water. Know how to turn off the gas, but do not practice this step. In the event of an earthquake, once you turn off your gas, only your utility company should turn it back on for safety reasons.

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