Golden State Today

April is National Earthquake Preparedness Month, and Californians are being urged to take proactive steps in readiness for potential seismic events. In a statement released today, state officials emphasized the importance of preparedness and introduced resources to assist residents in getting ready for emergencies.

The state is encouraging individuals to download the MyShake app, which is now available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese (traditional), Vietnamese, Korean, and Filipino. This app plays a crucial role in providing early warnings to users in the event of an earthquake, allowing them precious seconds to take necessary safety measures.

One of the key components of earthquake preparedness is awareness of risks and taking appropriate actions to mitigate them. Residents are advised to visit myhazards.caloes.ca.gov to educate themselves about local risks and hazards. Additionally, securing furniture, appliances, and home fuel systems can help minimize damage during an earthquake.

Creating an emergency plan tailored to individual needs, compiling an emergency contact list, and putting together an emergency supply kit with essential documents are recommended steps for residents to prepare for seismic events effectively.

In the event of an earthquake, individuals are reminded to follow safety protocols, including dropping to the ground, covering their heads with their arms, and holding on until the shaking stops. Staying alert for aftershocks and checking on family and friends post-earthquake are also important actions to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.

The Listos California campaign, aimed at expanding access to lifesaving emergency preparedness information, offers earthquake preparedness resources in various languages. These resources include social toolkits, flyers, quick guides, and disaster readiness materials to assist communities in being well-prepared for unforeseen events.

As Earthquake Preparedness Month progresses, Californians are encouraged to stay informed, take proactive measures, and utilize the available resources to ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones in the face of potential seismic activity.