HealthQuest

Save the high cost of living and traffic-congested freeways, Southern California is best known for its beautiful year-round mild climate and casual lifestyle. Because of these wonderful amenities we enjoy, it can be easy to forget that we also live in Earthquake Country. Unbeknownst to many, earthquakes occur almost daily. In the three-day period prior to this writing approximately 110 quakes were recorded in our Golden State – most measuring less than 3.0 on the Richter Scale (http://quake.usgs.gov). When “the big one” will strike, is anyone’s guess. Given that Southern Californians live with this uncertainty, the best option is to be prepared in the event of a disaster.  

After a major earthquake, electricity, water and gas may be out of service for days or even weeks. Emergency aid may not be readily available. For your safety, make sure you have the following items in your home, at your workplace or in your car:

Fire extinguishers

They should be suitable for all types of fires and easily accessible.

Wrench
Have a crescent or pipe wrench to turn off gas and water valves if necessary. 

Flashlight and extra batteries
Keep flashlights in several locations in case of a power failure. Do not use candles or lighted matches until you’re sure there are no gas leaks in your area.

Dry or canned food and manual can opener
Store a one-week supply of food for each person. Food that doesn’t require cooking is the best option. Also include paper or plastic dinnerware and utensils.

Water and disinfectant
Store several gallons of water for each individual. You may also need a disinfectant such chlorine bleach for purification. 

Radio and extra batteries
Portable radios are useful for receiving current disaster information. Do not call 911 for news. This emergency service is intended to dispatch help where necessary.

Trash bags and moist towelettes

Try to maintain a sanitary environment to guard against airborne illnesses. Dust face-masks and duct tape can also help protect against contaminated air.

Back to the top