Tsunami Preparedness Week: Are You Ready, Redwood City?

It is a real danger for those along the California coastline. Tsunamis, a series of waves or surges most commonly caused by an earthquake beneath the sea floor, can put oceanfront communities at risk.

National Tsunami Preparedness Week aims to draw attention to those potential risks — and what one should do if a tsunami happens — and it takes place March 27 through March 31.

Beach cities across California, in cooperation with the State of California, Office of Emergency Services (Cal-OES) and the San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services will be taking a role in promoting public education and awareness about tsunami preparedness.

The public is encouraged to sign up to take part in this year's event, much like the "Great ShakeOut," held annually.

"What will you do in your home, organization, or community this year?" the official website for California's 2017 Tsunami Preparedness Week states. "Participating is a great way for your family or organization to 'know your zone' if you live, work, or visit near the ocean (or may visit), and to learn what to do to be safe."

On-Line Resources that are available for residents include:

• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Tsunami Website
• Tsunami Education for Kids
• California Geological Survey - Tsunami Web Site
• http://myhazards.calema.ca.gov
• http://www.tsunami.ca.gov

Image via YouTube / Patch Editor Ashley Ludwig contributed to this report