Mayor Garcetti has made several moves to improve LA’s earthquake preparedness on the eve of the anniversary of the 1994 Northridge quake. The city has teamed with a US geological survey seismologist to develop resilience strategies in case of another big quake. Given our geographic location and plentiful fault lines, it’s more of a “when” the big one will strike than an “if.”
So here’s how to stay safe when a quake strikes.
If you are inside:
Drop to the ground, and get under something sturdy. One of the primary dangers during an earthquake is falling debris, so get under a table, bed or other heavy object, and hold it in place. Watch out for broken glass and try to distance yourself from broken windows and chandeliers. Don’t go anywhere until you’re sure the shaking has stopped, and definitely don’t get into an elevator.
If you are outside:
Put as much distance between yourself and anything that could potentially fall. Including, but not limited to, buildings, trees, power lines, and street lights. And stay in open space until you can be sure the shaking is over.
If you are in a car:
Stay in the car! Come to a stop when you can, and proceed cautiously after the quake is over.
Though we can hope the next big earthquake won’t be too devastating, it’s up to us to make sure we’re prepared. Here’s a good visual:
