SANTA MONICA – In the wake of Mexico’s massive 8.2 earthquake that has left dozens dead and caused untold damage and destruction, the question about earthquake safety as a whole lingers. 

Unfortunately, aside from the beautiful beaches and gorgeous weather, an inevitable part of living in Santa Monica is that the threat of an earthquake is always present.  Even though it is not possible to completely eliminate the damage of an earthquake, Santa Monica has taken steps to ensure that that they can reduce as much of the danger and damage as possible. 

Earlier this year, the Santa Monica City Council passed a seismic retrofitting effort.  It requires up to 2,000 buildings believed to be more susceptible to earthquakes to be renovated.  Notices will be sent to the owners of vulnerable buildings, with a timeline of when their safety adjustments must be completed.  This is the strictest earthquake law of its kind to be passed in America.

Additionally, the Santa Monica Office of Emergency Management recommends a few things that you can do to help ensure your own safety in the event of a quake.   

Get an Earthquake kit: Get an emergency kit with enough supplies to last you 7 days.

Make a plan: Create a plan with friends, family and your business.  Make sure to have contact information and a detailed plan of what you will do if an earthquake strikes.

Sign up for SM Alerts: https://www.smgov.net/Departments/OEM/Stay_Informed.aspx

Lastly, if an earthquake occurs and you are near the beach: the Office of Emergency Management in Santa Monica recommends you, “Drop, cover, and hold on until the shaking stops.  Estimate how long the shaking lasts.  If severe shaking lasts 20 seconds or more, immediately evacuate to high ground as a tsunami might have been generated by the earthquake.  Move inland 3 kilometers (2 miles) or to land that is at least 30 meters (100 feet) above sea level immediately.  Walk quickly, rather than drive, to avoid traffic, debris and other hazards.” 

In the event of an earthquake,  safety information and evacuation routes will be posted. Additionally, check your SM alerts for more information.  

Photos courtesy of Reuters.

SANTA MONICA – In the wake of the heartbreaking terrorist attack in Manchester and recent suicide bombing in Jakarta, it is crucial to look at how one stays safe in these uncertain times. It is no secret that Santa Monica’s beautiful beaches and fun events attract tourists both near and far, but what does that mean for security, especially on this Memorial Day weekend?

Santa Monica Police Department was unavailable for comment, however, with the addition of thousands of tourists in Santa Monica due to the holiday weekend, an increased police presence is expected.  It is now more important than ever to have strong safety protocols in place to ensure a fun, safe time for everyone. Police are also expected to be even more vigiliget in keeping the community safe in the wake of recent attacks.  Especially because, aside from just the normal influx of visitors on a long weekend, this Sunday, Main Street will also see an influx of guests.  About 1,000 people are expected to flock to MAINopoly on Main Street, an interactive event that boasts fun, food, fundraising and drinking. 

Throughout all the fun it is important that residents and visitors alike remember to remain aware of their surroundings and exercise caution in the crowds. Make sure to report any suspicious activity to the Santa Monica Police Department Headquarters (310) 395-9931.

Photo by Reuters and Santa Monica Beach by Clinton Steeds is licensed under CC BY 2.0