In May, the city of Fontana noticed the beginnings of an earthquake swarm. Currently, it has been approximately 1,000 small quakes. While the swarms have been small and the majority are magnitudes under 3.0, there have been a few over 3.0 magnitude but still less than a 3.5.
The U.S. Geological Survey now has the capability to detect much smaller magnitude earthquakes with technological advancements. It can record earthquakes as little as 0.5.
Swarms of small magnitude earthquakes are common in the area from Riverside to Chino and can last from a few months to a year.
Caltech seismologist Egill Hauksson has said that the chance that the series of tremors will turn into a large destructive quake isn’t particularly high. However, they are watching what’s happening and tracking activity.
The swarm is a reminder that residents of California do need to be prepared. While there is no need to panic, it does offer as a prompt to put plans into place and assess your home’s security.
Take Precautionary Measures
California residents need to take precautions specifically with securing their homes and having plans in place.
Keep an earthquake safety kit with water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit, in an easy to access location. Be sure that everyone in the house knows where it is. In addition to that have a flashlight, batteries, medicines, and a few tools in case you need to shut off any utilities.
Identify safe places in your home to drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake.
Create an evacuation plan with a meetup location in case you are separated from family during the seismic activity.
In your home, assess the furniture as well as heavy objects. You will want to bolt them down so that they don’t fall on anyone or anything during the incident.
Earthquake Retrofitting
If your home was built before the 1970s, then you need to have your home inspected to make sure that it has the proper current earthquake protection. Even if your home was built a little later, there is a high probability that it will need more support.
Earthquake retrofitting your home is a must in order to ensure your property and your personal safety. In addition, earthquake retrofitting will significantly reduce repair costs afterward, which will save you money. Your home may need updated reinforcements to secure it to the foundation.
The shaking causes the home to slide from side to side or back and forth, thus ripping it away from the foundation. Securing your home to the foundation will prevent this problem. House bolting uses special braces and hardware that stops the movement from occurring.
Contact Weinstein Construction, your neighborhood expert in seismic safety, for a free in-home inspection. Let us help you prepare so that you can rest easy knowing you are protected.
