The likelihood of a high magnitude earthquake in Los Angeles always seems to be on the rise as days go by.
The recent swarm of quakes in the Salton sea raised the alarm on the possibility of the San Andreas fault rupturing and causing thousands of deaths, injuries and billions of dollars in damages. There are a number of ways in which you can protect yourself and your property from an earthquake’s devastating effects.
Related: Why does my home need to be retrofitted ?
Personal Earthquake Safety Tips
Before the earthquake
- Learn first aid. It’s important to learn some basic first aid in preparation for an earthquake so that you can administer basic help to yourself and those around you. And keep a first aid kit nearby too
- Store emergency supplies such as food, water, prescription medicine, and a flashlight in an area that can be readily accessed during an earthquake.
- Identify safe spaces such as under tables or other sturdy furniture in your house or other places where you spend most of your time, so that you can crawl under them in case of an earthquake.
- Arrange your home for safety. To avoid anything from falling on you during an earthquake, anchor your appliances and electronics to the wall and avoid hanging heavy things near areas where people frequently sit, sleep or walk through.
During and after the earthquake
- Don’t use elevators, stairways or run to other rooms.
- If you are inside the house, don’t try to go out but instead crawl to a nearby safe space such as under the table until the earthquake ends.
- If you are outdoors, similarly drop to the ground but stay away from trees, buildings and power lines.
- If you are driving, slowly drive to an open space and don’t leave your car until the earthquake ends.
Related : Landslide Threat: Mandatory Evacuations Near Los Angeles
Building Earthquake Safety Tips
Before the earthquake
- Get rid of elements such as trees or unstable structures that are too close to your home because they might cause damage to your house during an earthquake.
- Learn how to turn off gas, power and water. If not turned off, gas might cause a fire and water might flood in your house.
- Contact a professional to earthquake retrofit your home. By far the most important step you can take in securing your home.
- Get earthquake insurance.
During and after the earthquake
- Expect an aftershock. Aftershocks are very likely after an earthquake.
- Stay away from buildings or other damaged infrastructure such as bridges and roads.
- Document the damage if you have earthquake insurance.
Related: Retaining wall construction
Hire an Earthquake Retrofit Contractor
The most important step you can take in securing your building against an earthquake is to have it earthquake retrofitted by a licensed contractor. Contact California Foundation Works on 323-418-2239 to get a free* earthquake retrofit inspection and estimate.
