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Home Earthquakes Earthquake Articles When an earthquake affects Los Angeles

When an earthquake affects Los Angeles

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What happens when an earthquake affects Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is very prepared to take action when the effects of an earthquake strike the city. Here is what happens:

1. The news media automatically locks in to a variety of instant online reporting systems. Several LA area reporters, including KNX Radio's Jack Popejoy are experts in earthquake activity. If you feel the ground shaking, once the earth quiets, use the media to get information.

2. The LA Police Department has a tactical alert mode.

3. The Los Angeles Fire Department goes into earthquake mode. They evacuate all fire companies from the 106 stations in Los Angeles and these companies survey their districts for possible damage. At Air Operations, LAFD helicopters go into the air and survey the city from above.

4. Other Los Angeles agencies, including the Emergency Management Division, get into a readiness mode, and will activate the Emergency Operations Center, or EOC, if required.

KEY THINGS TO REMEMBER:

1. If you feel an earthquake, do NOT run. DO NOT EXIT OR ENTER A BUILDING. Running is very dangerous - and most people who are injured in a community like Los Angeles are struck by falling debris, etc.

2. Do not use your phone for local calls. Make certain you have an out-of-state relative you can check in with. Use text messaging, SMS, or Twitter if possible. Mobile and land line telephones will likely be overloaded.

3. Do not call 9-1-1 unless you have a life-threatening injury to deal with, or a major fire to report.

This is why it's so important to prepare prior to an earthquake occurring. You can learn more right here at MySafe:LA. Here are some important links to be aware of:

Learn how to DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON! Click here!

Learn how to be EARTHQUAKE READY. Click here!

Get the best EARTHQUAKE BASICS. Click here!

Watch our EARTHQUAKE SCIENCE Video. Click Here!


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Newsflash

Does your family have an escape plan in the event of an emergency? There is nothing that can prepare your family for a disaster better than creating a viable family escape plan, and practicing that plan frequently. When disaster strikes, you'll be prepared and your family will know what to do if you make a plan today.