Last week, 2 earthquakes rattled Los Angeles county. Although they were centered north of the city, people reported shaking all the way down here in Hermosa Beach. While no significant damage was reported, the shakers reminded us all that no one is safe from the dangerous fault lines that run underground throughout the area.

The truth is that you never know when The Big One will strike. Scientists are unclear about when exactly it’ll happen, but they all generally agree that a massive earthquake is inevitable. Don’t be caught off guard. By taking a few easy steps of caution, you can greatly improve your chances of safety. Check out these tips:

Install earthquake valves

Earthquake valves are a no-brainer for any resident in the city, and especially those of us who live in The South Bay. Take a look at any fault line map, and you’ll see we’re perched on or near some very active underground plates. Perhaps the biggest danger during an earthquake – other than falling objects – is your gas line. If lines become disrupted and gas emits into the air, you and your family are at risk of an explosion.

Fortunately, many a plumber in Hermosa Beach will install earthquake valves. Ritz Plumbing, for example, can add this safety measure to your gas line, whether you live along The Strand or Hermosa Beach Pier. Our team of technicians will ensure that your gas line automatically shuts off in the event that it starts shaking.

Prepare an emergency kit

Emergency kits are another important step in earthquake preparation. These should include items such as extra bottled water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits. Basically, you should pack yours keeping in mind that you may very well be without electricity or access to water for hours or even days. The first aid kit should have band aids, topical solution such as Neosporin, gauze, cotton swabs, tweezers and more. While you may not incur serious injuries, it doesn’t hurt to plan for a worst-case scenario, as being over prepared is always better than the alternative.

Additionally, keep the emergency kit in an easy-to-access place. In the event that furniture or debris falls down around you, you’ll want to be able to grab the kit with ease.

Make an evacuation plan

You won’t necessarily have to evacuate your house, but if the damage from the quake is extreme and fires break out around you, you should have a backup plan in mind. Take a few minutes and think of a safe place for you and your family. It should be easy to access on foot, since roads may be blocked. You’ll probably want to avoid major commercial areas that may have been affected, and possibly burned. Stick to streets that won’t likely be crowded, and choose a final destination that probably won’t incur much damage, but isn’t too remote. You want to stay in contact with the news, as well as other people as much as possible without endangering yourself.