Emergency Preparedness

It's not a matter of where but when. There is going to a major earthquake in Southern California. Experts are predicting a large magnitude earthquake of 6.4 or greater to occur in the Los Angeles area in the next decade. Are you and your family prepared to'handle such a disaster?

While the Central Basin disaster preparedness efforts include extensive measures to protect the water system fiom damage during an earthquake, breaks in water lines will occur. There is no way to predict which areas will be damaged. It could affect your city or if not, a family member that lives in another part of Los Angeles. In either case, there will not be a normal water supply following an earthquake. That's why one of the most important things you can do to get ready for an earthquake (or any other disaster) is to store an adequate amount of emergency drinking water. You can survive weeks without food, but only a few days without water.

Please see our frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for the next earthquake or disaster. There is more information available on how to best prepare yourself and your family for a disaster fiom the American Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security. Please use the links below for additional information in this area and print out a copy of the attached emergency supply checklist.

Q. How much water should I store?

A. Store 1 gallon of water per person per day to take care of hygiene and consumption. A normal person needs to drinks at least 2 quarts of water a day. Prepare to be without water for 3 to 7 days.

Q. How long can I store bottled water?

A. Bottled water can be stored for several years. Make sure it is kept in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight. Inspect it every few months to make sure there are no leaks or cracks.

Q. How do I know if the tap water is okay to drink during an emergency?

A. Until notified by proper authorities that your water is okay to drink, tap water should be boiled (full rolling boil) for at least 1 minute before consuming.

View these sites for more great emergency preparedness tips!

http://www.redcross.org/

http://www.ready.gov/

http://www.ready.gov/business/_downloads/emergency_supplies.pdf