Caltrans District 8, which oversees Riverside and San Bernardino counties, on Thursday encouraged residents to keep a survival kit, water, comfortable clothing and shoes in their cars in case of emergency. Among the items to include in a survival pack are toothbrushes and bars of soap, a whistle and a flashlight, cash and coins, sunblock and bug repellent.
Residents always should carry enough water for three days, Caltrans officials say.
Southern California Gas, meanwhile, advised customers not to shut off their natural gas after an earthquake unless they notice a gas leak. Customers should call 911 and immediately leave the area if they smell or hear natural gas, company officials tweeted Thursday.
“Earthquakes can happen at any time … and we need to be prepared,” California Earthquake Authority CEO Glenn Pomeroy said in a statement. “It’s important to know what to do to stay safe when the ground starts shaking.”
The California Earthquake Authority is a privately funded, publicly managed nonprofit providing residential earthquake insurance.
Los Angeles County Fire officials on Thursday reminded Southern California residents to drop, cover and hold during an earthquake. After the shaking, residents should be prepared for aftershocks and check for fires, hazards and damaged utilities.
Experts at the state Seismic Safety Commission also recommend helping neighbors who may require special assistance, particularly the elderly and people with disabilities.
And to be informed during all types of disasters and emergencies, residents can sign up for alerts through city and county agencies.
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