USGS map pf the Mexicali earthquake on April 4.
April 6 — The 7.2 earthquake centered near Mexicali that rocked all of Southern California April 4 should be a “wake-up call” for area residents to prepare, said Anna Bourne, manager, Preparedness Education, American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles.
“We need to remember that earthquakes not only happen in other countries but right here in our own backyard, so every family member needs to be prepared,” said Bourne.
Most of the U.S. damage was in California’s Imperial Valley. American Red Cross disaster specialists are in Calexico and other nearby areas assessing the damage
Across the border, Mexicali was hardest hit. The Mexican Red Cross estimates that 3,500 people were affected by the earthquake. In response, the Baja California chapter has mobilized about 125 responders who are focusing on needs assessments, providing pre-hospital attention and assisting with the movement of affected people to temporary shelters. The Red Cross is also sending 1,500 hygiene kits, home clean-up kits, food parcels and cooking kits (pots, pans, plates, cutlery, glasses, etc.)
Do you know what you should do during an earthquake? The thinking used to be to stand in a doorway if you are inside during an earthquake. Now the recommendation is to get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on to protect yourself from falling objects during the quake.
If you are inside when an earthquake strikes…
• Drop, cover and hold on. Move as little as possible.
• If you are in bed, stay there, curl up and hold on. Protect your head with a pillow.
• Stay away from windows to avoid being injured by shattered glass.
• Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you are sure it is safe to exit. If you must leave the building after the shaking stops, use stairs rather than an elevator in case there are aftershocks, power outages or other damage.
• Be aware that fire alarms and sprinkler systems frequently go off in buildings during an earthquake, even if there is no fire.
If you are outside when an earthquake strikes…
• Find a clear spot and drop to the ground. Stay there until the shaking stops (away from buildings, power lines, trees, streetlights).
• If you are in a vehicle, pull over to a clear location and stop. Avoid bridges, overpasses and power lines if possible. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. Then, drive carefully, avoiding bridges and ramps that may have been damaged.
• If a power line falls on your vehicle, do not get out. Wait for assistance.
• If you are in a mountainous area or near unstable slopes or cliffs, be alert for falling rocks and other debris. Landslides are often triggered by earthquakes.
Click here for more information about how to prepare for a quake.
