Great California ShakeOut: Cal OES Shares Earthquake Safety Tips for Central Coast Residents

Ahead of Thursday’s statewide earthquake drill, emergency officials explain why people should avoid doorways, how to protect themselves during shaking and when coastal residents should move to higher ground.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — With the Great California ShakeOut approaching, emergency officials are reminding Californians how to protect themselves during an earthquake and prepare for potential emergencies.

The annual statewide earthquake drill is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, at 10:15 a.m. Participants are encouraged to practice safety procedures at home, at school and at work.

Phillip Labra with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) says one common mistake people make during an earthquake is running toward a doorway.

“What people kind of naturally do is they'll run or walk towards a doorway. And in that action you'll actually fall, injure yourself potentially,” Labra said.

He explained that doors can swing open and closed during strong shaking, potentially injuring people who try to brace themselves in a doorway.

Instead, officials recommend Drop, Cover and Hold On: drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk if possible, and hold on until the shaking stops.

People who use wheelchairs or walkers should also take precautions, including locking their wheels when possible, covering their head and neck, and holding on.

What should drivers do during an earthquake?

If an earthquake strikes while someone is driving, Labra recommends pulling over, setting the parking brake and waiting until the shaking stops before continuing.

Drivers should avoid stopping beneath overpasses, bridges, power lines or other structures that could pose a hazard.

Coastal residents should know tsunami warning signs

For residents along the Santa Barbara and Ventura county coastlines, earthquake preparedness also includes knowing when to move to higher ground.

Labra says a strong or prolonged earthquake, a loud ocean roar or water that suddenly recedes can be natural warning signs of a possible tsunami.

“If you're along the coast or on the beach, even harbors and piers if you feel the ground shake, if you hear a loud roar, or if you see the ocean recede, then those are your natural cues to move to higher ground,” Labra said.

Residents should not wait for an official alert if they experience natural tsunami warning signs. They should move inland or to higher ground and follow guidance from emergency officials.

How to prepare before an earthquake

Cal OES also encourages residents to secure heavy furniture, keep emergency supplies such as water, food and medications on hand, and establish a family communication plan.

Californians can also learn about the state's Earthquake Early Warning System and download the free MyShake app, which can deliver earthquake alerts when shaking is detected.

The system may provide seconds of warning before strong shaking arrives, but alerts are not guaranteed to reach everyone before shaking begins.

Residents can learn more about earthquake safety and register for the Great California ShakeOut at www.ShakeOut.org.