A recent study by a group of earthquake experts states that there is a 67 percent chance that a magnitude 6.7 or larger earthquake will strike the greater Los Angeles area sometime in the next 30 years.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health would like to encourage people to evaluate their disaster readiness in light of that study.
“Residents of Los Angeles County have always known the question is not if an earthquake will strike, but when,” said Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, director of public health and health officer. “This study reminds us of the importance of being prepared for an earthquake or other type of natural disaster. Having a family communication plan and an emergency kit can provide the necessary resources to help you and your family get through a difficult situation.”
The 10 essential Items, as recommended by the Emergency Survival Program in the county’s Office of Emergency Management, include: Water, food, cash and important documents, clothes, first-aid kit, medicine, radio, toiletries and tools.
These items will help ensure that people have access to basic essentials when other resources may not be available during an emergency. It is also vital that families put together a communications plan, in case they are separated or at work or school when a disaster strikes. This plan should include information on how to contact each other and designate a safe place to meet.
For more information on earthquake and disaster readiness, call (866) 999- 5228 or visit the Just Be Ready: Prepare Together Web page at www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 17, 2008. Read the original PDF.