|
Nov 13
2008
|
5 Million in The Great Southern Califorrnia Shakeout!Posted by Kris in Orange County, News, Interesting, Events   |
 |
When the big one hits, will you be ready? Over 5 million people participated in The Great Southern California Shakeout (www.ShakeOut.org) on November 13, 2008, a drill to test our readiness to deal with the aftermath of a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. A recent forecast found that sometime in the next three decades there is a 67 percent chance that the Greater Los Angeles area will experience a tremor of at least 6.7 – the same magnitude as the 1994 Northridge quake that killed 57 people. A U.S. Geological Survey projection says a magnitude 7.8 quake along the San Andreas fault could cause 300 deaths in Orange County and bring down an unspecified 240,000-square-foot mixed-use building. These sobering figures should move us to action.
What can you do to be prepared for a earthquake whether big or small? Start by making a home earthquake plan. Find a safe place in your home where nothing can fall on you away from windows or glass. Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On at least twice a year by dropping under a heavy piece of furniture like a table or desk, holding on and protecting your eyes by pressing your face against your arm. If no furniture is available, sit with your back against an interior wall away from bookcases, etc. Identify and eliminate hazards in your home by bolting bookcases, china cabinets, and other pieces of tall furniture to wall studs. Put sturdy latches on cupboards. Lastly, secure televisions, books, and computers and other falling hazards. Prepare a disaster supplies kit for both your home and car. Some of the items to include would be canned food and a can opener, at least 3 gallons of water per person, protective clothing, bedding, battery powered radios and flashlights, extra batteries, written directions for turning off gas, electricity, and water. A first aid kid and any necessary medications should be included in the kit as well. Once this plan is in place, be sure that all family members, babysitters, and caregivers are aware of it.
Just as you can be prepared before an earthquake, there are tasks you can do once the shaking starts. If you are in bed, stay there and protect your head with your pillow. If elsewhere in your home, Drop, Cover, and Hold On, being sure to protect your head and face. If outdoors, try to get to a clear area away from tall buildings, trees, and electrical lines and then drop to the ground. If you are in your car, slow down and if possible, drive to a clear area away from buildings, etc. Stay in your car until the shaking stops. Through it all, try to stay calm.
Once the shaking stops, take an assessment of any injuries you may have sustained and then assess others for injuries. Take a walk through your home, look for and extinguish any small fires. During your home inspection if you deem it unsafe, get out immediately. If you smell gas, turn it off. But remember, only a professional can turn it back on! Listen to the radio for information and use your telephone only to report emergencies. Don’t be caught off guard by aftershocks as they are sure to occur. Once again, Stop, Drop, and Hold On.
For a list of Orange County companies to help you "quake-proof" your home and family, go to the Search box on the Home Page of this Orange County Resource Guide and in the keyword box, type "Earthquake."
