As you may have heard, or experienced for yourself — a 4.7 magnitude earthquake hit near Malibu on September 12, 2024. It was felt throughout Los Angeles County.
With this earthquake at the forefront of our minds, we believe it’s important to share some important earthquake safety tips. If you grew up in California, then chances are you are you’re already aware of the big 3 main things to do during an earthquake: Drop. Cover. Hold on.
How To Stay Safe During An Earthquake
As mentioned above, you can effectively protect yourself with:
- DROP to your hands and knees to avoid getting knocked down by the earthquake. While keeping you safe from falls, this position also permits movement as needed.
- COVER your head, neck, and, if you can, your entire body by placing yourself beneath a desk or strong table. If there isn’t any cover close by, crouch down next to a low-lying piece of furniture or against an interior wall so that your hands and arms can protect your head and neck.
- HOLD ON to your shelter — or your head and neck, until the shaking stops. If the shaking causes your shelter to move, be ready to move with it.
Contrary to popular belief, DO NOT stand under your doorway. According to CDC.gov, you are much safer under a table. The site also states that doors don’t shield you from falling or flying items, which are the most common cause of injuries and fatalities during earthquakes.
Be prepared for aftershocks after an earthquake. For more location/situation-specific advice on how to stay safe during an earthquake, you can find those details and information here.
How To Stay Prepared For Earthquakes
According to Ready.gov, it is essential to create an emergency communications plan with friends and/or family that has an out-of-state contact.
- Be sure to plan where to meet if you are separated.
- Have a supply kit ready that includes food and water for several days.
A basic emergency supply kit is recommended to include:
- Water
- Food
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- And much more. You can find the entire emergency supply kit list here, and print it out at home.
For up-to-date alerts and information on earthquakes, we recommend you follow:
- Download the MyShake App for alerts.
- Ready.gov and CDC.gov for safety tips.
Southern California is known as “earthquake country” — so stay safe by being prepared.