Earthquake Preparedness

Scientists announced their earthquake predictions last week for Southern California, a 6.7 magnitude earthquake within the next 30 years.  That should come as no surprise to us Californians.  We have been warned to expect “The Big One” for a while now.  But it brings about an important question, “Is your family prepared?”

 A few of the things that families can do to prepare for an earthquake are:

• Gather disaster preparedness supplies such as food, water, a first aid kit, portable radio, flashlights, spare batteries, personal hygiene supplies, emergency cash, medications, spare eyeglasses or contact lenses, a list of out-of-state contacts, and copies of personal identification.

• Hunt for home hazards: Secure items in the home that can fall and break, such as furniture, televisions, computers, mirrors, knick knacks, etc.

• Know what to do during and after a quake.  If inside during an earthquake, “Drop, Cover, and Hold on.”  If in bed, stay put, and use pillows to protect your head.  When outside, stay clear of buildings, power lines, and trees.  If driving, pull over to the side, away from falling hazards.

To learn more about earthquake preparedness, visit the California State Office of Emergency Services website at www.oes.ca.gov.  Click on “Preparedness” (located at the top of the page), scroll down to “Earthquake Program”.  On the next page, once again click on “Earthquake Program”.  Lastly, scroll down to OES Earthquake Preparedness Tip Sheets for a plethora of preparedness information.

Earthquake preparedness brochures will be available at the San Bernardino County Public Library – Big Bear Lake Branch, Big Bear Lake City Hall, and Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District – Station 1 throughout the end of April.