Damage to a home in the 1994 Northridge Earthquake. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) News Photo.
Also see: Probability of an Earthquake in the Los Angeles Region
Photo courtesy of www.Ready.gov.
Prepare your family
Set aside essential emergency supplies
Download this FEMA emergency supply checklist for your next visit to the store:
Also see: Build a Kit for additional items recommended for your emergency supply.
Check your home for potential risks
Check school emergency policy
Also see: Emergency Food & Water Supplies
Photo courtesy of www.Ready.gov.
Immediately, when an earthquake hits: Drop, Cover and Hold On. From the U.S. Geological Service.
Evacuation
Post a message on the front door indicating where you can be found. Take with you:
Leave pets confined, if possible with food and water, if you are going to a site which does not accept animals.
The ShakeOut Earthquake Scenario
Photo courtesy of www.Ready.gov.
Be prepared for aftershocks
Gas: Do not turn off the gas unless you smell or see a leak. Inspect for leaks by smell only. Do not use candles or matches. Do not turn on electrical switches or appliances. If you smell gas, shut off the main valve and open all windows and doors.
Electricity/Water: If lines are damaged (frayed wires, sparks, smell of hot insulation, water leaks), turn off system at main fuse box or valve.
DO NOT turn on gas or electricity again until the utility company has first checked your home.
After a severe earthquake, essential services such as police, fire, and paramedics may not be able to respond to the needs of your neighborhood for 24 hours or more. Normal supplies of food and water may be unavailable. Telephones may not work. Transportation and utility systems may be damaged.
Community preparedness begins with an awareness of your community's earthquake hazards and available resources. Meet and find out who has the skills that will be useful before and after an earthquake. Identify who may need particular help after an earthquake, including the disabled, those with special medical needs, older persons, mothers with nursing infants, unattended children, and non-English speaking neighbors.
The above is from the County of Los Angeles pamphlet "You and Your Family Can Survive an Earthquake By Knowing What to Do Before, During, After a Major Earthquake."
Other resources:
-- A Comprehensive Guide to Family Preparedness by City of L.A. Emergency Management Department
-- Staying Safe Where the Earth Shakes - Southern California Coast Edition by Earthquake Country Alliance.
Also see: Significant Earthquakes in Los Angeles County