Great So-Cal Shake-Out

   The Great Southern California ShakeOut is a week of special events featuring the largest earthquake drill in history, organized to inspire Southern Californians to get ready for big earthquakes, and to prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes.  The great California ShakeOut is based on a potential magnitude 7.8 earthquake on the southern San Andreas Fault – approximately 5,000 times larger than the magnitude 5.4 Chino Hills earthquake that shook southern California on July 29.  It’s not a matter of if an earthquake this size will happen – but when.  And it is possible that it will happen in our lifetime.

   At 10:00 a.m. on November 13, 2008, millions of southern Californians will Drop, Cover, and Hold On.  Why?  An enormous earthquake is in our future, and the ShakeOut drill is our chance to practice what to do when it happens.  Individuals, families, businesses, schools and organizations will join firefighters, police officers, and other emergency responders in our largest ever earthquake preparedness activity.  Go to www.ShakeOut.org to register for the drill and get more information.

WHAT TO DO IN AN EARTHQUAKE – BE PREPARED: BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER AN EARTHQUAKE

How to be Prepared

   Electricity, water, gas and telephones may not be working after an earthquake.  The police and fire departments are likely to be tied up.  You should be prepared to fend for yourself for at least three days, preferably for a week.

   You’ll need food and water (one gallon per day per person); a first aid kit; a fire extinguisher suitable for all types of fires; flashlights; a portable radio; extra batteries, blankets, clothes, shoes and money (ATM’s may not work); medication; an adjustable or pipe wrench to turn off gas or water, if necessary; baby and pet food; and alternate cooking source (barbecue or camp stove, outdoor use only).  This list can also be applied to other disasters, such as floods or wildfires.

   Decide beforehand how and where your family will reunite if separated during a quake and to conduct in-home practice drills.  You might choose an out-of-the-area friend or relative that family members can call to check on you.

   Secure water heaters, major appliances and tall, heavy furniture to prevent them from toppling.  Store hazardous or flammable liquids, heavy objects and breakables on low shelves or in secure cabinets.

During an Earthquake

   If you’re indoors, stay there.  Get under – and hold onto – a desk or table, or stand against an interior wall.  Stay clear of exterior walls, glass, heavy furniture, fireplaces and appliances.  The kitchen is a particularly dangerous spot.  If you’re in an office building, stay away from windows and outside walls and do not use the elevator.

   If you’re outdoors, get into the open.  Stay clear of buildings, power lines or anything else that could fall on you.

   If you’re driving, move the car out of traffic and stop.  Avoid parking under or on bridges or overpasses.  Try to get clear of trees, light posts, signs and power lines.

   If you’re in a mountainous area, beware of the potential for landslides.  Likewise, if you’re near the ocean, be aware that tsunamis are associated with large earthquakes.  Get to high ground.

   If you’re in a crowded public place, avoid panicking and do not rush for the exit.  Stay low and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.

After an Earthquake

   Check for fire or fire hazards.  If you smell gas, shut off the main gas valve.  If there’s evidence of damage to electrical wiring, shut off the power at the control box.

   If the phone is working, only use it in case of emergency.  Avoid driving if possible to keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles.

   Be aware that items may fall out of cupboards or closets when the door is opened, and also that chimneys can be weakened and fall with a touch.  Check for cracks and damage to the roof and foundation of your home.

   Listen to the radio for important information and instructions.  Remember that aftershocks, sometimes large enough to cause damage in their own right, generally follow large quakes.

   For more information go to www.consrv.ca.gov.

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