Los Angeles experienced a jarring preview of what a significant earthquake might feel like.
On September 29, the Big Shaker earthquake simulator made its way to Grand Park, offering participants a chance to feel the effects of a simulated 7.5 magnitude earthquake.
For Christin Doyle, it was a more intense experience than any earthquake she had felt during her nearly 15 years in California.
“It was pretty unsettling. The shaking was a lot rougher than I expected,” Doyle reflected. “The few I’ve experienced here have been gentler and more rolling. This was definitely different.”
Inside the simulator, participants were reminded to practice the “drop, cover and hold on” method as the environment around them shook.
Trevyn Reese, the vice president of emergency preparedness firm Ready America, explained that the simulator is designed to mimic a household setting and highlight how regular items can pose dangers during a strong quake.
Reese recommended that families conduct a “hazard hunt” at home, searching for unsecured heavy furniture, TVs, glassware, and other items that could fall or become hazards in an actual earthquake.
He also cautioned against the traditional belief that standing in a doorway is the safest option during a quake. “That’s a common misconception,” he noted. “If the door slams and you’re holding onto the frame, you could injure yourself.”
The demonstration clearly had a lasting impact on Doyle. “I think I’m going to review my emergency kit again and check if everything is still usable,” she said, adding that some of her emergency food might have expired.
The simulator event was organized by Ready America as part of an earthquake preparedness initiative at Grand Park.
