Home About Us Take A Class Get Prepared Give Blood Donate Now Volunteer How We Help Calendar And Events For The Workplace For Educators For The Armed Forces Youth Lifeline Store News And Publications Current Press Releases Archived Press Releases Orange County Chapter News Community Reports Annual Reports Donor Newsletters Contact Us Resources Employment			OC Red Cross Urges Earthquake Preparedness, Awareness SANTA ANA, Calif. –The American Red Cross of Orange County is urging all residents to use yesterday’s earthquake as a reminder to get prepared. Geologists believe that an earthquake of 6.7 on the Richter Scale, which would be more than 90 times stronger than yesterday’s quake, is almost certain to occur within the next 30 years. And most Southern Californians are not ready. "Preparedness truly is the best defense," said Orange County Chapter CEO Stanley Perdue. "Knowing what to do before, during and after any disaster offers the best protection for you and your loved ones." Some tips include: Before an Earthquake Put together an emergency kit that provides every member of your household, including children and pets, with at least three days worth of water, food, medications and other supplies. Secure your space by bolting bookcases to the wall, installing latches on cupboard doors, and strapping the water heater to wall studs. During an Earthquake DROP under a sturdy table, COVER your head and HOLD on until the shaking stops. Do not run outside. It is safer to take cover indoors than risk being hit by cement or glass falling from a building. After an Earthquake Check yourself and others for injuries and give first aid when necessary. Stay off the phones unless calling 9-1-1 to report a life-threatening situation. The American Red Cross offers free disaster education presentations to local businesses and community groups. To schedule a presentation or to obtain safety tips, please contact the Orange County Chapter at (714) 481-5300 or visit www.oc-redcross.org. All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster, please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local Chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.