LAFD in Earthquake Mode after Southern California hit by magnitude-5.2
Friday, June 10, 2016
LAFD Spokesperson: Erik Scott
LOS ANGELES — A magnitude-5.2 earthquake rocked Southern California early Friday, rousing residents out of bed around 1:05 a.m. local time.
The quake's center was located about 13 miles north-northwest near Borrego Springs in the desert east of Los Angeles, the U.S. Geological Service reported.
On the west side of Los Angeles, about 100 miles from the epicenter, the quake produced a long shaking motion lasting about 30 seconds. Fortunately there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Did you know that when the ground shakes in the city of Los Angeles, the LAFD enters Earthquake Mode?
What is Earthquake Mode? This is when Firefighters from all 106 neighborhood fire stations provide a complete and strategic survey of over 470 sq miles in the greater LosAngeles area to ensure safety for all.
This process is very impressive to watch. It happens swiftly and succinctly.
Firefighters rapidly leave quarters and examine all major areas of concern:
• Transportation infrastructures (freeway over pass).
• Large places of assemblage (Dodger Stadium, Universities).
• Apartment buildings, dams and even power-lines.
Firefighters will perform these actions from the ground, air and water to ensure your safety.
Once this process is complete, all resources are re-housed and those Firefighters immediately report back to Head Quarters of any significant damage or injuries. LAFD's Earthquake Mode is typically completed less than an hour.
Your LAFD would like to remind you that, “You cant predict, but you can prepare”.
- Create a disaster supplies kit that includes enough supplies for each family member for at least three-five days. Remember to check your kit every six months.
- Make sure your child knows what smoke alarms, and warning systems in your home and area sound like and how to respond, including how and when to call for help.
- Know where your gas, electric and water main shutoffs are and how to turn them off if there is a leak or electrical short.
Also, Drop, Cover, and Hold On" is the appropriate action to reduce injury and death during earthquakes.
