ShakeOut Urges Californians to Prepare for Earthquakes NOW

UPDATE: The annual ShakeOut earthquake drill is a critical reminder for Californians to prepare for potential seismic events, as experts highlight the dangers of moving during quakes. New findings emphasize that injuries often occur when individuals flee buildings instead of staying put.

On December 21, 1954, residents like Mrs. Hess in Pepperwood and Jeannie Thompson at the Scotia Inn experienced significant injuries due to instinctive movements during an earthquake. Mrs. Hess was thrown down steps, breaking both ankles, while Thompson injured her knee. These incidents occurred over 30 miles from the epicenter, where the shaking was categorized as moderate, leading experts to stress that staying calm and stationary can prevent injuries.

Research conducted by earthquake expert Lori Dengler from Cal Poly Humboldt shows a clear correlation: the more people move during an earthquake, the higher their risk of injury. This pattern was confirmed in studies of both the 1989 Loma Prieta and 1994 Northridge earthquakes. Individuals who remained still sustained fewer injuries, while those who rushed to safety often faced greater hazards from falling debris.

In one tragic case during the Northridge quake, a mother in Rancho Cucamonga rushed to her baby’s room at 4:30 a.m., tripping on a toy and suffering a fatal injury. Such heart-wrenching stories underline the urgent need for effective earthquake preparedness and awareness.

California has made significant strides in building earthquake-resilient structures since the devastating 1933 Long Beach earthquake, which claimed 115 lives and caused extensive damage to schools. This disaster prompted the enactment of the Field Act, establishing earthquake-resistant building codes that have saved countless lives in subsequent quakes.

Despite these advancements, older buildings, particularly in urban areas, still require retrofitting to meet modern standards. Newer schools are generally equipped to withstand seismic events, but private institutions and older structures remain vulnerable. Additionally, temporary classrooms often lack necessary safety features.

Dengler warns that while structural integrity is vital, non-structural elements like furniture and ceilings can also pose risks. Items that fall during shaking can cause injuries or even trigger fires. Thus, ensuring proper placement and securing of furniture is essential for safety.

The ShakeOut drill serves as a crucial opportunity for Californians to practice earthquake preparedness. By staying informed and adhering to safety guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the number of injuries during real seismic events.

As Dengler puts it, “Encouraging people to stay put during an earthquake is key. If we can overcome the instinct to run, we can save lives.”

With the next ShakeOut drill on the horizon, residents are urged to participate and review their emergency plans. For more information about preparedness, contact 707-826-6019 or email [email protected] for a free copy of the preparedness magazine “Living on Shaky Ground.”

Stay alert, stay prepared, and remember: during an earthquake, safety starts with staying still.