Recent Earthquakes are a Reminder to be Prepared!

Last week’s earthquakes are an important reminder that disasters can happen at any time and being prepared for the next big one is critical. This time we were lucky in Culver City, but next time we may not be.   

Start planning now by following these steps to being prepared for the next earthquake or other disasters.

STEP 1: Make a Plan

Prepare yourself and your loved ones for an earthquake by finding earthquake-safe locations in your home and workplace where you can “Drop, cover and hold on!”.  

Know the hazards in your specific neighborhood. Use CalOES My Hazards tool to check the earthquake and tsunami risks in your neighborhood. This is also a great resource for directions on how to prevent earthquake damage inside your home.  

In case you are apart from your family members, roommates or friends during an earthquake, have two locations where your family could meet if you had to evacuate your home or if you had to evacuate your neighborhood. Ensure all individuals are familiar with these locations. 

In a major earthquake event, you and your neighbors are the first responders. Take time today to have conversations with your neighbors and discuss ways that you can help each other.  Host an emergency preparedness meeting for your neighbors and invite the Fire Department's Emergency Preparedness Coordinator to attend and present.  Email fire.department@culvercity.org for more information.

STEP 2: Build a Kit

Create a family scavenger hunt to gather items for your kit. Manage costs by buying an extra gallon of water, canned food, or package of batteries each time you go to the grocery store. Here are some basic items to include in your kit. When you’re finished, put the items in an old suitcase or backpack. Then be sure to check your kit and change any expired items at least twice a year. For more disaster kit information, visit culvercity.org/emergencyprep. 

STEP 3: Stay Informed!

Everbridge Emergency Alerts allows the City of Culver City to provide you with critical information in an emergency situation. When a natural disaster, police activity or other emergency requires you to act to protect yourself and your family, you'll receive texts, emails or phone calls that let you know what to do.   

You may register as many devices as you like to receive Everbridge Alerts - home, mobile, or business phone, email, text messages, and hearing-impaired receiving devices. To receive Everbridge Alerts for your home or business, visit our "Stay Informed" webpage and register.  Residents and businesses may also register for Public Safety notices that provide situational awareness on immediate safety concerns in our community. 

STEP 4: Get Involved!

There are many ways to get disaster ready by getting involved.  Consider joining the City's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Culver City Amateur Radio Emergency Services (CCARES) Team or Citizens Police Academy.   See our "Get Involved" webpage for more detailed information.