Minor earthquake shake-ups remind us that we live in ‘earthquake country’; but when a Big One hits, are you and your loved ones prepared for it? Here are some things you can do to prepare:

1. Earthquake shaking can cause items to tip over or fall off shelves, potentially causing injury. Identify such items in your residential unit as well as your work area. Move bookcases and tall items away from beds and sitting areas as much as possible. Secure TVs and other large objects to their stands. In addition, discuss with your housing provider what you can do to improve your earthquake safety within your unit by taking some simple actions like securing large furniture and display cases to the wall.


2. A large earthquake can cause panic – Will you and your loved ones know what to do in the middle of the chaos? Take the time now to sit with your family and make a plan that works for you. Decide where you will meet if you need to evacuate during an earthquake Determine how you will communicate with family and loved ones. Plan for everyone in your household, including persons with disabilities, elderly, children, and pets. Sign up for emergency alerts by visiting https://emergency.lacity.gov/alerts/notifyla for the City of LA’s emergency alert system.


3. Consider what emergency supplies you may need in the aftermath by placing items into a backpack and keeping one under the bed, in your car, and throughout your housing unit. (Examples of items to include: a change of clothes, non-perishable canned and dry food, water, juice, flashlights, battery operated radio, first aid kit, and cash in small bills.)


4. Keep copies of your insurance policies, recent bank statements, and ID cards together with your emergency supplies. Do you have earthquake insurance? Earthquake insurance is available for both property owners and renters. For renters, it can cover your belongings and the cost of living elsewhere if your rented house, apartment, or room is damaged. Learn more at: https://www.earthquakeauthority.com/These are things you can do During an earthquake:


5. Practice DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON. Your kids may practice it at school. You and your entire household should practice it at home. Even if you cannot shelter under a sturdy table or desk, you can still do your best to move away from falling objects and cover your head and neck with your arms.


6. As the ground stops shaking, do not run outside. It may be safer to stay indoors, away from falling power lines, trees, poles, or other tripping hazards. Take a moment to determine your situation. You may need to use your first aid kit to assist injured family members. If you smell gas, you may be able to shut off the main gas valve; if you see a fire, you may be able to use a fire extinguisher to put it out. If possible, clean up any broken glass to prevent further injury. If damage is severe and you must evacuate, remember to grab your emergency food, water, and supplies on your way out. After an earthquake, your recovery begins:


7. Recovery may take weeks, months, or even years. It will be a very stressful time. Reach out to family and friends. Ensure you and your loved ones stay fed and hydrated. Follow all safety instructions. Call your insurance company and let them know your situation. Be on the lookout for local, state, and federal assistance, including FEMA financial assistance.

For more information on how to be prepared, including details on the Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill in October, please visit: https://www.earthquakecountry.org/ and
https://www.shakeout.org/california/