LOS ANGELES, Oct. 14, 2024 — Los Angeles is no stranger to earthquakes, experiencing an average of five tremors each year with magnitudes between 3.0 and 4.0. The recent Malibu earthquake was Southern California’s 14th seismic event in 2024, with at least one magnitude 4 or higher earthquake, according to Caltech. With a 46% chance of a magnitude 7.0 earthquake and a 31% chance of a 7.5 quake hitting the region in the next 30 years, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, the importance of earthquake preparedness cannot be overstated.

To ensure everyone is ready for when the "Big One" strikes, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region encourages all residents to participate in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, at 10:17 a.m. This annual event brings together millions of people worldwide to practice life-saving safety measures for earthquakes. Whether you're at home, work, or school, it’s a crucial opportunity to learn how to respond when the ground starts shaking. 

PRACTICE PREPAREDNESS: DROP, COVER, HOLD ON

While earthquakes cannot be predicted, preparation is key to minimizing harm. Participating in the Great ShakeOut is a simple yet effective way to practice essential safety actions. Visit shakeout.org to learn more about how you, your family, and your coworkers can protect yourselves when an earthquake occurs.

ESSENTIAL EARTHQUAKE SAFETY TIPS

During an earthquake, it’s important to stay where you are and avoid moving unnecessarily. Follow these safety tips to stay protected:

·       Indoors: Drop to the ground, cover your head and torso, and hold on to something sturdy. If you're at a desk or table, get underneath it. If you're in bed, stay there, curl up, and protect your head with a pillow.

·       Outdoors: Move to an open area, away from buildings, power lines, trees, or streetlights, and drop to the ground. Stay there until the shaking stops.

·       In a vehicle: Safely pull over to a clear spot, away from overpasses, bridges, or power lines, and stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking ends. Avoid driving on damaged roads.

·       Mountainous areas: Be alert for landslides and falling debris, which are often triggered by earthquakes.

STAY INFORMED WITH RED CROSS EMERGENCY APP

Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for vital tips on how to prepare for, respond to and recover from earthquakes and other disasters. Additionally, the Red Cross First Aid app offers essential guidance for dealing with injuries when emergency help may be delayed. For even more peace of mind, consider getting trained in first aid and CPR/AED skills to help others in times of need.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media