» California quakes remind citizens to stay prepared

California quakes remind citizens to stay prepared

June 17th, 2005 · No Comments

Four earthquakes in less than seven days have left Californians worried about the possibilities of an even larger, more devastating event, and in a report posted on their Web site, the American Red Cross is urging residents to prepare in advance for tremblers.

While residents in one part of the United States are readying for the possibility of a disastrous hurricane season, the West is being reminded to be prepared at all times for the event of an earthquake. Unlike these storms, earthquakes cannot be predicted, making it more important for residents to think fast and get prepared.

At least four major earthquakes have struck California since Sunday:

Thursday night, a magnitude 6.4 quake hit off the Northern California coast;

Thursday afternoon a 4.9 quake shook San Bernardino County near the town of Yucaipa in Southern California;

Tuesday a 7.2 quake hit off the Northern California coast, prompting a tsunami warning that was later lifted;

On Sunday a 5.2 quake shook Riverside County in Southern California

While none of the quakes have caused any major damage or injuries, the frequency of these earthquakes are causing residents to think ahead. The Red Cross advises creating a home earthquake plan, including steps like choosing a safe place in every room–under a sturdy table or desk or against an inside wall where nothing can fall on you, practice drop, cover and hold on, at least twice a year, and choosing an out-of-town family contact.

After an earthquake, its important to assess damage to people and property as well:

Check yourself for injuries

Inspect your home for damage. Get everyone out if your home is unsafe

After you have taken care of yourself, help injured or trapped persons.

With coastal earthquakes comes the threat of tsunamis as well. In 1964 Crescent City, Ca. was hit by a tsunami after a major earthquake, causing the deaths of 11 people and the destruction of much of the city. Residents are advised to heed state and local warnings after an earthquake in case a tsunami warning is issued.

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