Ridgecrest Earthquake Anniversary is reminder to prepare for the big one
AMERICAN RED CROSS
Last week marked one year since a series of strong earthquakes rocked the Searles Valley area from July 4-5. The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region was on the ground helping neighbors affected in its aftermath and reminds Angelenos to review and adjust their emergency plans. The earthquakes were two of the biggest temblors to hit California in nearly a decade.
“The one-year anniversary of the Ridgecrest earthquakes and its many aftershocks, including the magnitude 5.5 aftershock felt just four weeks ago, serve as a reminder that earthquakes are an unavoidable fact of life here in California,” said Joselito Garcia-Ruiz, Regional Disaster Program Officer at American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. “The next earthquake could be even more devastating and being prepared is crucial. Ready yourself and your loved ones now by taking three simple actions: get a kit, make a plan and be informed.”
After a major disaster, families should be prepared with enough food, water, and emergency supplies to last up to two weeks until help can arrive. The Red Cross recommends three basic steps: Get a Kit – Build an easy-to-carry emergency preparedness kit that you can use at home or take with you if you must evacuate. Include items such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight and extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, first aid kit and medications. Be sure to also include a cloth face covering for everyone in your household.
Make a plan – Talk with members of your household about what to do during emergencies. Plan what to do in case everyone is separated and choose two places to meet; one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency and another outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.
Be informed – Know what kinds of emergency situations may occur where you live, where you work and where you go to school. Because of COVID-19, stay current on advice and restrictions from your state and local public health authorities as it may affect your actions and available resources and facilities. Earthquake Safety
The Red Cross offers these safety steps you should follow during an earthquake:
• Avoid moving around. Drop, cover and hold on.
