Vanguard prepares for “The Big One”

Natural disasters sweeping across the country has rekindled talks of a California’s anticipated major earthquake.

Living along the San Andreas and the Newport-Inglewood faults leaves Vanguard in a vulnerable position as  well. Californians have been hearing about “the Big One” for years, but as time passes uneventful, many forget about the potential disaster.

In elementary school, there is over ten safety checks a year to make sure all the students know what to do in case there was emergency. As you get older reaching middle or High school, the safety checks stop. They assume that you already know everything there is to know.

“I know the basic emergency steps for an earthquake but if there was one to happen today I think I wouldn’t know what to do other than hide under a table or desk,” sophomore Summer Conner said.

When asked the question do you think Vanguard is ready for an earthquake to hit Conner’s says “No one ever talks about it, I would say no I’m sure some people in high places have a plan and I would hope students who have grown up in California would know what to do in if and when an earthquake comes”

However, Campus Safety officer Gabe Corona assures students that the campus is sufficiently prepared in case of any tectonic activity.

“We have enough food in the cafe for 72 hours that will last as well as water. We have a great plan working with Brain Burlingame of natural disasters. he had enough flashlights, candles just very well prepared,” Corona said.

Even though Vanguard does in fact have plans in place for natural disasters, it is vital for students to be mindful of basic safety procedures.

“During an earthquake you are supposed to find a nice hard piece of furniture or door frame. You are supposed to go into the fetal position in order to protect the back of your head. Try to stay away and objects refrigerators or microwave that might fall on top of you,” said Corona.

After the immediate danger has ceased, students are admonished to evacuate with their building to each designated meeting spot. Huntington and Laguna Hall meet at Heath Lawn, while Catalina, Balboa and Newport must go to the Campus Mall (the grass lawn surrounding the VUSC letters). Then everyone must remain there until told otherwise by the fire department.

Vanguard is prepared for any sort of emergency the school may have to handle. The most important thing to remember if these situations arise, Campus Safety reminds students, is staying calm for everyone’s safety.