Despite the challenges we faced, many of us breathed a little easier after the Loma Prieta Earthquake on October 17, 1989. The big earthquake that everyone talked about for decades had happened. But don’t be deceived. Loma Prieta was not the big one. It was nowhere near the size of the 1906 earthquake.

The inevitability of an earthquake still confronts everyone in the Bay Area. A new study released in May 2003 by the US Geological Survey (USGS) estimates a 62 percent chance of a magnitude 6.7 or greater quake occurring in the Bay Area sometime during the next 30 years. The Peninsula Section of the San Andreas Fault has a 21 percent chance.

Be prepared to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours after an earthquake, since that’s how long it can take for emergency response agencies to set up recovery centers. Have one gallon of water per day per family member. Keep non-perishable food products on hand. Maintain flashlights and an AM radio with extra batteries. Know where the utility shut-offs are for your home. Even if your home survives an earthquake, a gas leak can still destroy it. Know that fire and police departments will be overwhelmed and will only respond to the most significant incidents. After Loma Prieta, the Palo Alto Fire Department had some 300 calls backed up at the 911 dispatch center.

Take cover under a desk or table. Avoid windows. Do not rush for the door. Falling debris will be evident. Wait until the shaking stops and then find the nearest exit.

Provide first aid to those in need and check buildings for damage. Turn off utilities if they are damaged. Be prepared for aftershocks. Listen to the radio for instructions. Check for gas leaks and downed power lines and warn others to stay away.

Most communities in the Bay Area offer community Emergency Response Team training. Contact your local fire or police department for details and for class schedules in your area. SLAC has a volunteer emergency response team which has a seven-session course and holds quarterly meetings.

To find out more about earthquakes, visit the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/