EMS online conference- Experts teach earthquake preparedness skills to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake

In a recent meeting focused on earthquake preparedness, Ethnic Media Services and California Black Media came together to stress the importance of earthquake readiness and commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake.

The Loma Prieta earthquake, which struck on October 17, 1989, caused significant damage in the San Francisco Bay Area, leading to the collapse of infrastructure and buildings, and resulting in loss of life. The objective of this meeting was to enhance awareness and preparedness among California’s diverse communities regarding natural disasters like earthquakes.

Experts at the meeting expressed their hope that by disseminating critical information about earthquake preparedness, every community in California could access the necessary resources and knowledge to ensure their safety before a disaster strikes. With advancements in earthquake warning technology, understanding the actions to take during an earthquake has never been more crucial.

Several experts in emergency management were invited to share insights with attendees on earthquake risks, response measures, and the latest developments in earthquake warning technologies.

Sonya Harris, who has worked in government for over 15 years and has long focused on emergency response, emphasized the importance of communities utilizing available tools and resources to better protect themselves. “To ensure that every community is prepared before disaster strikes, we need to start using the tools and information we have today,” she stated.

Amy Palmer from the California Office of Emergency Services outlined how the state’s earthquake warning system operates and the associated preparedness measures. She highlighted that California is currently using a statewide network of sensors to detect early seismic activity, providing public alerts through mobile apps and other communication means seconds before strong shaking occurs. “Those precious seconds allow people to take quick action, such as ‘Drop, Cover, & Hold On,’ to ensure personal safety,” Palmer said.

She added, “Earlier this year, many individuals in Southern California received a 20-second heads-up before an earthquake, giving them time to react. This is a crucial achievement of technological advancement, demonstrating the importance of the warning system in protecting lives.”

Jose Lara, an expert in earthquake warnings at Cal OES, shared details about California’s large-scale earthquake drill plan, set to begin on October 17 at 10:17 AM. During the drill, a seismic simulator will provide the public with a realistic earthquake experience, simulating the intensity of shaking to help people learn appropriate response techniques.

He emphasized the critical role of children and families in earthquake preparedness: “By educating children about the dangers of earthquakes and teaching them the correct response steps, not only are we thinking of their safety, but we’re also better preparing other family members.” Lara encouraged the public to actively participate in the drill on the 17th and spread knowledge about earthquake emergency preparedness.

Both Palmer and Lara pointed out that whether receiving a warning seconds before an earthquake or feeling initial ground shaking, the public must react promptly by taking the ‘Drop, Cover, & Hold On’ action to minimize risk. This strategy has proven to be the most effective method of self-protection, especially as many modern buildings are designed to meet “life safety” standards, ensuring structural stability during significant earthquakes.