[californiadisasters] Today's Sylmar Earthquake Anniversary: A Reminder to Be Prepared

Today's 43rd anniversary of the Sylmar/San Fernando Earthquake in Los Angeles reminds us that a disaster can strike without warning. 

Click here to watch a dramatic video of the earthquake that includes LAFD responders: http://youtu.be/fiabD0WBl7w

While much has changed since that February 9, 1971 event that took 64 lives, the fact that disasters can injure us, force us to evacuate our neighborhood, workplace or school - or even confine us to home brings us to ask: What would you do... 

...if basic services - water, gas, electricity and telephones - were entirely cut off? ...if roads were impassible or Neighborhood Firefighters were committed to major emergencies and unable to reach you right away?

The answer is Preparedness!

The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department want you and your family to be safe. Here are some tips for getting and staying prepared:

• Know the types of disasters that can occur in your community.
• Make a family emergency plan that coordinates with your school, work and neighborhood plans. Practice them with the every member of your household - and don't forget your pets!
• Create a disaster supplies kit that includes enough supplies for each family member for at least three days. Remember to check your kit every six months.
• Teach children about emergencies, including when to call for help, where you'll meet and how you'll communicate following a disaster.
• If you commute to work, know alternate routes and carry appropriate supplies, such as a disaster kit in your car - and a compact kit with bare essentials such as a small flashlight and whistle when on public transportation.

Being prepared will not only help you survive a disaster, but greatly lessens the impact of common emergencies such as injury, fire and severe weather.

The LAFD suggests these resources to help you get and stay prepared:

• American Red Cross - Plan and Prepare
• CDC - Emergency Preparedness and Response
• CERT - Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT - LA)
• Earthquake Country Alliance
• Emergency Preparedness for People With Disabilities
• FEMA - Are You Ready? Guide
• Ready Kids
• LAFD - Emergency Preparedness Booklet
• MySafeLA.org
• Ready.gov
• ReadyLA.org

The time to get ready for unexpected situations is right now - while you have time to listen, learn, plan and prepare!

# # #

Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service, 

Brian Humphrey

Firefighter/Specialist - Public Service Officer

Emergency Public Information (EPI) Center

Los Angeles Fire Department

"Serving with Courage, Integrity and Pride"

Brian Humphrey Status & Location: http://bit.ly/BrianLAFD

LAFD Home Page: LAFD.ORG

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