UPDATE: As California prepares for its annual ShakeOut earthquake drill, new insights into the importance of earthquake resilience have emerged. Recent studies highlight the critical need for communities to prioritize safety measures and education, especially in light of historical tragedies.
On December 21, 1954, a powerful earthquake rattled California, injuring residents far from the epicenter. Among them was Mrs. Hess, who broke both ankles fleeing her home in Pepperwood, and Jeannie Thompson, a waitress at the Scotia Inn, who injured her knee in a similar panic. These incidents underscore a vital lesson: movement during an earthquake significantly increases the risk of injury.
Research led by Jim Goltz during the aftermath of the 1989 Loma Prieta and 1994 Northridge earthquakes confirms this alarming trend. His findings indicate that the farther individuals moved while shaking occurred, the higher the likelihood of injury. This data is crucial as residents prepare for the upcoming ShakeOut event, which emphasizes the life-saving strategy of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”
During the Northridge earthquake, a tragic incident involved a mother who, in a rush to reach her baby, fell and suffered a fatal injury. This reinforces the instinctive but dangerous reaction many have in such emergencies. The California Geological Survey reports that during past earthquakes, approximately two-thirds of injuries resulted from people rushing outside, often leading to deadly encounters with falling debris.
California’s building codes have evolved significantly since the devastating 1933 Long Beach earthquake, which resulted in over 115 deaths and destroyed numerous schools. Following this disaster, the Field Act mandated that all public K-12 schools be designed to withstand seismic activity. This legislation has since saved countless lives during subsequent quakes, confirming the effectiveness of modern engineering practices.
However, concerns remain for older structures and private institutions that may not meet current safety standards. Emergency preparedness also encompasses non-structural hazards, as unsecured items can cause injuries or fires during a quake. The upcoming ShakeOut aims to raise awareness about these risks and promote preparedness strategies among residents.
As the ShakeOut drill approaches, experts urge Californians to embrace the practice of staying calm and remaining in place during an earthquake. By doing so, the state can reduce emergency response demands and accelerate recovery efforts.
What’s Next: Residents are encouraged to participate in the ShakeOut drill on October 19 at 10:19 AM. This annual event serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, resilience, and community safety.
For more information on earthquake preparedness or to receive a free copy of the magazine “Living on Shaky Ground,” residents can contact Lori Dengler, an expert in tsunami and earthquake hazards, at 707-826-6019 or via email at [email protected].
Stay informed, stay prepared, and share this vital information with your community to help build a safer California!
