OAKLAND OFFICIALS PARTICIPATED in “The Great California Shakeout” on Thursday morning and called on members of the public to be prepared in the event of a major earthquake.
Mayor Barbara Lee was joined by first responders in front of Oakland City Hall to urge residents to participate in the drill, which takes place annually on Oct. 16 in remembrance of the 6.9-magnitude Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989 that resulted in numerous deaths, injuries, and damage across the Bay Area.
Coincidentally, a 3.1-magnitude earthquake shook the University of California, Berkeley campus less than an hour before the press conference, and the mayor mentioned that to demonstrate the importance of preparedness for local communities.
“We want to remind everyone to drop, cover, and hold during an earthquake. And to not stand in a doorway!” said Lee.
Speaking alongside Lee was Tim Dawson, seismic hazards program manager with the California Geological Survey, who said nearly 70% of Californians live near an active fault that could experience a large earthquake.
“The reason why we drill this is because an earthquake will happen very suddenly and it’s just human nature to wonder what’s going on and fear might take over,” said Dawson. “The better that you’re able to practice this, it’s a muscle memory almost. It’s like riding a bike or putting a fork to your mouth.”
Throughout the morning, Oakland city employees practiced the “drop, cover, and hold” drill from inside their offices and outside in Frank H. Ogawa Plaza.
First responders also helped teach individuals how to use first extinguishers, set up emergency tents, and perform CPR.
Hayward City Councilmember Ray Bonilla Jr. said over 10 million Californians signed up to participate in the drill, but stressed people should have a plan for after an earthquake happened and not just while it happens.
“We live in one of the most beautiful regions in the world, but we also have constant reminders that preparedness isn’t an option,” said Bonilla. “Whether it’s storing extra water, updating your emergency contacts, downloading the MyShake app, creating a family plan, or participating in great events like today, every step brings us closer to a more resilient Bay Area.”
The California Department of Conservation states on their website that two or three earthquakes are generally estimated to occur every year in the state that can cause moderate damage to structures.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services manages the early warning system which sends alerts through a free smartphone app called MyShake — available for iPhone users who want audio and visual warnings in English and Spanish, a statewide warning system most smartphones automatically subscribe to, and a no-cost text messaging system.
For more information, visit shakeout.org/california.
The post Oakland residents, officials take part in ShakeOut to stay prepared for earthquakes appeared first on Local News Matters.