Ready For 'The Big One?' RivCo Officials Hold Earthquake And Emergency Drills To Prepare

RIVERSIDE, CA — If a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck the San Jacinto Fault, what would be the response? That was one of the emergency scenarios Riverside County and state officials were tasked with confronting during a training exercise this week.

The exercises, held on Wednesday and Thursday, were led and hosted by the Riverside County Emergency Management Department. They were designed to spark dialogue among multiple departments and agencies as they reviewed emergency plans for scenarios ranging from communications failures and fuel distribution to employee mobilization, according to a news release.

Officials said the exercises were conducted to ensure their readiness for disasters.

"By participating in discussions around various disasters, we are able to analyze existing plans, identify areas for improvement and improve existing plans," officials said.

The attendees brainstormed ways to communicate with employees and stakeholders if the communication platforms they relied on were affected or unavailable during an emergency.

"If employees are unable to contact their offices and staff, there are mobilization plans designed to give employees a place to report so that important disaster response and recovery can begin with minimal delay," officials said.

Riverside County officials routinely prepare to respond to potential disasters and urge local residents to be ready if one occurs.

"Any disaster will require time to stabilize and address the needs of our communities. All residents should be able to sustain their households for three to seven days. Have a plan, make a plan, and prepare now for emergencies," officials said.

More tips on earthquake and emergency disaster preparedness for Riverside County can be found at RivCoReady.org.