An earthquake does not send an invitation or wait until families are safely home. It can strike during the morning commute, in a classroom, at a grocery store or while someone is working at their desk. For San Bernardino residents, that uncertainty makes earthquake preparedness an important part of everyday life.
On Thursday, October 15, at 10:15 a.m., residents, schools, businesses and community organizations throughout California are invited to participate in the annual Great California ShakeOut, an earthquake safety drill designed to help people practice how to protect themselves when the ground begins shaking.
The exercise encourages participants to remember three potentially lifesaving actions: Drop, Cover and Hold On. Individuals should drop to their hands and knees, take cover beneath a sturdy desk or table when available, and hold on until the shaking stops.
For San Bernardino, the message carries particular importance because of the city's proximity to the San Andreas Fault, one of California's most significant earthquake systems.
The fault runs along the northern edge of the San Bernardino Valley, making seismic activity a longstanding concern for local emergency planners, schools, businesses and homeowners. Although scientists cannot predict exactly when a major earthquake will occur, decades of research have demonstrated the importance of preparing communities before disaster strikes.
The Great California ShakeOut grew from a regional preparedness initiative in Southern California in 2008 and has since developed into an international earthquake safety campaign.
Its purpose is not simply to remind people that earthquakes happen. Organizers want participants to develop protective habits that become automatic during an emergency, when confusion and fear can make decision-making difficult.
That preparation extends beyond the annual drill.
San Bernardino families are encouraged to identify safe locations inside their homes, secure heavy furniture, store emergency supplies and establish communication plans in case relatives become separated.
Residents should also consider how they would respond if an earthquake interrupted electricity, water service, transportation or cellular communications.
For households with young children, older adults or family members with disabilities, emergency planning may require additional preparation. Medications, mobility equipment, important documents and supplies for household pets should all be considered.
Schools and workplaces have an equally important responsibility. Practicing protective actions can help students and employees become familiar with procedures before an actual emergency.
The consequences of a major earthquake would not be limited to damaged buildings. Disruptions to roads, utilities, hospitals and local businesses could affect the entire Inland Empire.
That interconnectedness makes individual preparation a community responsibility.
A family that maintains emergency supplies may be better positioned to manage temporary service interruptions. A business with an emergency plan may be able to protect employees and recover more quickly. A school that regularly practices earthquake procedures can help children respond more confidently.
The Great California ShakeOut offers San Bernardino an opportunity to turn awareness into action.
Participation does not require elaborate equipment or extensive expense. It begins with taking a few moments to practice, discuss emergency plans and identify improvements that could make a difference when seconds matter.
San Bernardino's history has been shaped by its geography, and earthquakes will remain part of the region's future. While residents cannot control when the earth moves, they can control how well they prepare.
The most important lesson of the Great California ShakeOut is simple: the best time to learn what to do during an earthquake is before one begins.