Many in California not ready for 'big one'

LOS ANGELES, March 8 (UPI) -- Earthquakes in Chile and Haiti are unwelcome reminders that many people in California may be unprepared for the "big one," researchers said.

"The recent earthquakes in Chile and Haiti call attention to the need for Californians to do even more to prepare for the big one," Matthew Bettenhausen of the California Emergency Management Agency said in a statement. "This study confirms that Californians need constant reminders and a steady stream of earthquake preparedness information to motivate people to act. We continue to urge Californians to prepare now."

The survey was conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Public Health for the State of California on behalf of the California Emergency Management Agency, California Seismic Safety Commission and CaliforniaVolunteers, a state office in charge of promoting volunteer service among Californians.

The survey indicated:

-- Fewer than 20 percent of households have structurally reinforced their homes or had their homes inspected for earthquake resistance.

-- 40 percent keep the recommended minimum of three gallons of water stored per person.

-- Fewer than 20 percent of California households have purchased earthquake insurance.

-- More than 80 percent of households have first aid kits, flashlights and batteries in their house.

-- 40 percent of Californians have made family disaster plans.

-- Fewer than 50 percent have dust masks, tools to rescue trapped people, or an extra set of emergency supplies in the car.

Disaster preparedness resources are at CaliforniaVolunteers.org.