Discover Essential Tips for Earthquake Preparedness in ShakeOut Drill Guidance

A major earthquake has not hit California’s major cities in over 30 years, yet experts agree that “The Big One” is inevitable. California’s seismic risk extends beyond the state’s active fault lines. Approximately 70% of Californians reside within 30 miles of an active fault, according to Jeremy Lancaster, California State Geologist. With seven active volcanoes, potential landslides, tsunamis, and thousands of miles of active faults, Californians need to be vigilant.

ShakeOut Drill Guidance: Essential Tips for Earthquake Preparedness

Understanding the ShakeOut Drill

The annual ShakeOut drill aims to prepare Californians for seismic disasters. This year, Southern California’s drill will take place at the Los Angeles Emergency Operations Center, while the San Francisco Bay Area’s event occurs at Oakland City Hall.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On

• At 10:16 a.m. on the designated day, participants will practice the ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ technique.
• This involves dropping to the ground, covering under a sturdy object like a table, and holding on until the shaking stops.
• Moving around inside during an earthquake can increase your risk of injury, as established in the 1989 and 1994 California earthquakes.

Why Running Outside is Not Recommended

Exiting a building during an earthquake is dangerous due to the risk of falling debris, such as glass or bricks. About half of the injuries during past quakes stemmed from falling objects. Studies indicate that staying put under sturdy furniture reduces injury risk.

Early Warning Systems

The MyShake app provides crucial early warnings, allowing users to react seconds before the shaking starts. Developed by UC Berkeley, the app partners with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, using ShakeAlert messages from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Securing Your Home

• Strap bookcases and water heaters to walls, and secure TVs and picture frames to prevent tipping.
• Check for necessary home retrofits, especially for homes built before 1979 with “cripple walls.”
• Retrofit costs vary, but grants are available for up to $3,000 via the California Residential Mitigation Program.

Risks of Tsunamis and Seismic Activity

California also faces tsunami risks, extending beyond coastal areas to bayside and riverside locations. It is essential to understand local evacuation procedures. Maps from the California Geological Survey can guide residents in identifying vulnerable zones.

California’s Ongoing Preparations

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is constructing a new campus in Costa Mesa for Southern California’s emergency operations, supplementing its current headquarters in Mather. The Los Angeles County Board mandates seismic retrofits for high-rise concrete buildings with a 20-year completion deadline.

Seismic Activity in California

California is the second most seismically active state in the U.S. Yet, its large population makes it the highest in seismic risk. The last significant earthquakes of magnitude 7.8 or higher occurred in 1906 in Northern California and in 1857 in Central and Southern California. Being informed and prepared is vital for all Californians.