Los Angeles

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Disaster Preparedness

Information on earthquakes, wildfires, and emergency response plans specific to Los Angeles.

Sections

1. Emergency Supplies

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is essential for disaster preparedness in Los Angeles. The city recommends having supplies to last at least 7-10 days due to the potential for delayed emergency response after a major disaster.

Essential Items:

  • Water: 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.
  • Non-perishable food: Canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, etc.
  • First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, medications, and any prescription drugs.
  • Flashlights and batteries: Power outages are common after disasters.
  • Portable phone chargers: Solar-powered or battery-operated chargers are ideal.
  • Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio for updates.
  • Personal hygiene items: Soap, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and feminine products.
  • Clothing and blankets: Include sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
  • Cash: Small bills are useful if ATMs and card systems are down.
  • Important documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof container.
  • Tools: A multi-tool, duct tape, and a whistle for signaling.
  • Masks: N95 masks to protect against smoke or dust, especially during wildfires or earthquakes.

Specialized Items:

  • For Earthquakes: Emergency crowbar or wrench to turn off gas lines.
  • For Wildfires: Fire-resistant gloves and goggles.
  • For Families with Children: Baby formula, diapers, and comfort items.
  • For Pets: Food, water, leash, and vaccination records.

2. Evacuation Plans

Los Angeles has specific evacuation protocols depending on the type of disaster. Itโ€™s important to familiarize yourself with these plans and routes.

General Evacuation Tips:

  • Know your zone: Check if you live in a wildfire or flood-prone area using the LA County Emergency Zone Map.
  • Plan multiple routes: Freeways and major roads may be congested or damaged.
  • Transportation: If you donโ€™t have a car, identify public transportation options or carpool plans.
  • Emergency Go-Bag: Keep a smaller version of your emergency kit ready to grab and go.

Earthquake-Specific:

  • Evacuation is not always necessary after an earthquake unless there is structural damage, fire, or a tsunami warning (for coastal areas).
  • Avoid elevators and use stairs to exit buildings.

Wildfire-Specific:

  • Follow Ready, Set, Go! guidelines:
    • Ready: Prepare your home and emergency kit.
    • Set: Monitor alerts and pack your car.
    • Go: Evacuate immediately when ordered.
  • Pre-plan evacuation routes and identify safe zones outside the fire area.

Flood-Specific:

  • Avoid driving through flooded areas. Just 6 inches of water can sweep a car away.
  • Move to higher ground if flash flooding occurs.

3. Communication Resources

Staying informed during a disaster is critical. Los Angeles offers several resources for real-time updates and communication.

Alerts and Notifications:

  • NotifyLA: Sign up for emergency alerts via text, email, or phone at NotifyLA.org.
  • Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA): Enabled on most smartphones for government-issued alerts.
  • Emergency Alert System (EAS): Broadcasts on TV and radio.
  • MyShake App: Provides early earthquake warnings.

Contacting Emergency Services:

  • 911: For life-threatening emergencies.
  • 311: For non-emergency city services.
  • 211 LA County: For social services and disaster recovery assistance.

Communication Tips:

  • Use text messages instead of calls to reduce network congestion.
  • Have a designated out-of-state contact for family members to check in with.

4. Shelter Locations

In the event of a disaster, Los Angeles sets up emergency shelters in schools, community centers, and other public facilities.

How to Find Shelters:

  • Check the American Red Cross Shelter Map: redcross.org.
  • Monitor updates from LA County Office of Emergency Management.
  • Use the FEMA App to locate nearby shelters.

Considerations:

  • Shelters may not accommodate pets unless they are service animals. Identify pet-friendly shelters in advance.
  • Bring your emergency kit, including personal hygiene items and medications, to the shelter.

5. Potential Costs of Preparedness

While disaster preparedness can involve upfront costs, it is a worthwhile investment. Below is a rough estimate of common expenses:

  • Basic Emergency Kit: $100โ€“$200 per person.
  • Earthquake Retrofits for Homes: $3,000โ€“$7,000 (for older homes).
  • Fireproofing Homes: $500โ€“$2,000 (clearing brush, installing fire-resistant materials).
  • Insurance: Earthquake and flood insurance are not included in standard policies and can cost $800โ€“$2,000 annually, depending on coverage.

6. Local Considerations

Los Angeles faces unique risks that require specific preparedness measures.

Earthquakes:

  • Risk: LA is located near the San Andreas Fault, making it highly susceptible to major earthquakes.
  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On: During an earthquake, get under sturdy furniture and protect your head and neck.
  • Gas Shutoff: Know how to turn off your gas line to prevent fires after an earthquake.

Wildfires:

  • Risk: Dry conditions and Santa Ana winds make wildfires a recurring threat.
  • Defensible Space: Maintain a 100-foot clearance around your home by removing flammable vegetation.

Tsunamis:

  • Risk: Coastal areas like Santa Monica and Venice are at risk of tsunamis after offshore earthquakes.
  • Evacuation: Move inland and to higher ground immediately if a tsunami warning is issued.

Flooding:

  • Risk: Heavy rains can cause flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
  • Sandbags: Available for free at LA County fire stations to protect your property.

7. Notable Procedures and Local Organizations

Several organizations and programs in Los Angeles are dedicated to disaster preparedness and response.

Key Organizations:

  • Los Angeles Emergency Management Department (EMD): Coordinates citywide disaster response. emergency.lacity.org
  • American Red Cross Los Angeles Region: Provides shelter, food, and recovery assistance. redcross.org/la
  • California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES): State-level disaster management. caloes.ca.gov
  • CERT (Community Emergency Response Team): Free training for residents to assist in emergencies. cert-la.com

Drills and Training:

  • The Great California ShakeOut: Annual earthquake drill held every October. shakeout.org
  • Fire Preparedness Workshops: Offered by local fire departments.

Final Tips:

  • Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for earthquakes, wildfires, and floods.
  • Practice your familyโ€™s evacuation and communication plan regularly.
  • Stay informed about local risks and resources by attending community meetings or workshops.

By taking these steps, you can significantly improve your safety and resilience in the face of disasters in Los Angeles.