What local services will be offered after an earthquake?

What local services will be offered after an earthquake?

Mark Benthien (Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach, Southern California Earthquake Center ) gives expert video advice on: Where can I find alternate sources of shelter, medicine, and food after an earthquake? and more...

After a damaging earthquake, there'll be many organizations that begin to mobilize activities to serve the needs of the affected people in the community that was damaged by the earthquake. This includes the American Red Cross, the local, state and federal emergency management agencies, police departments, fire departments and many others. However, depending on the size of the earthquake, it may take several days before people in the affected areas really begin to receive these benefits. It's important that people realize that they're the first responders to the earthquake. They need to be prepared in advance and ready to handle the situation as it arises.