Late last month, State Senator Alex Padilla (D-Pacoima) introduced legislation to fund a statewide earthquake early-warning system using technology that already exists. During a press conference at Caltech in Pasadena on January 28th, it was discussed that the prototype called the California Integrated Seismic Network needs more money in order for it to go public, and the estimated cost is $80 million. [Read more…]
Do You Remember the Northridge Earthquake in 1994?
Yes, it’s been 19 years since an earthquake caused some serious devastation to Los Angeles. It almost seems like remembering a movie starting Bruce Willis where he ends up saving the world. But it really happened. So why are we talking about it? Because it’s important to remember earthquake safety all the time. The most dangerous thing about earthquakes, besides their ability for destruction, is that even scientists cannot predict them with any certainty.
Nineteen years ago last Thursday, the San Fernando Valley in Southern California was violently shaken by what is now known as the Northridge earthquake. Lives were lost, and there was widespread catastrophic damage estimated at $15 billion in the earthquake that measured 6.7 on the Richter scale. Freeway overpasses were cut in half. Almost 60 people were killed, and over 20,000 were made homeless by the quake. Is that serious enough for a reminder? [Read more…]
Earthquake? Here’s What NOT To Do!
If your home looks like this after an earthquake, or you just think it does, call us.
Most of us California residents know exactly what to do in the event of an earthquake, especially if we grew up here. Do you remember the earthquake drills in elementary schools, teaching you to get under your desk and cover the back of your neck with your hands? Second only in popularity to the fire drill of “Stop, Drop and Roll”…
But there are people moving to Southern California every day from across the nation, and across the world. And these people may have never experienced the “fun” of an earthquake before, and there are some things that people might do that can cause injury, large-scale property damage and even death. So we thought it is important to outline the definite “DON’Ts” for our quake newbies—especially since we’ve had two in the last 16 hours! [Read more…]
Why Strap Your Water Heater to a Wall?
We recommend that you have a professional plumber install your water heater and strap it correctly.
First of all, because it’s California state law. It’s true, and it makes sense. Besides great weather, superb wines and Hollywood, California is certainly known for its earthquakes. And because of that, California state law requires that any new or used water heater sold on or after July 1, 1991 to be strapped securely to a wall.
NO exceptions are allowed for any home, public building or multi-family property, including office buildings, apartment or condominium complexes or public spaces. Why? Because if an earthquake hits and that water heater falls over, there’s a serious potential for both water damage and a fire that could endanger the building and people in it, who may be trapped by debris or unconscious after the quake. [Read more…]