'Big Shaker' encourages earthquake preparedness Published Sept. 24, 2014 By Rebecca Amber Staff writer EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The world's largest mobile earthquake simulator was shaking things up in the Base Exchange parking lot Sept. 23. The 24-foot long trailer, the "Big Shaker" is used as an educational tool to demonstrate a 6.0 to 7.0 earthquake to people who may not have experienced an earthquake before. The Big Shaker was sponsored by Edwards AFB Emergency Management as part of National Preparedness Month, where the focus is to be prepared before, during and after a natural disaster. For SoCal residents, earthquakes are the most likely natural threat. The inside of the trailer has been configured to resemble a typical Southern California living room with furniture, wall fixtures, televisions and audio equipment. Some of the items have been secured with earthquake safety fasteners, other objects like paperback books, plastic cups and teddy bears have not been secured. When the trailer starts to rock those unsecured items fall off of the shelves giving the participant a realistic demonstration of a large earthquake. According to Ready America spokesperson Brian Lowe, the majority of personal injuries in an earthquake are caused when objects fly off of shelves or top-heavy furniture falls on the individual. When an earthquake does hit, individuals are encouraged to Drop, Cover and Hold on. This method involves getting under the nearest and sturdiest table or desk and holding onto one of the table's legs so that you move with the furniture. The other arm should be used to protect your head. Senior Airman Duncan Davis, 412th Test Wing Command Post emergency actions controller, has never been an earthquake. What he expected to be "little minor shocks" ended up being quite surprising. "I can already think of some stuff in my house that would be really affected, some cabinets that would just topple if we got some decent shock," said Davis. Emergency Management was on hand to supply preparedness materials and emergency checklists. Ready America had emergency and first aid kits and furniture straps for sale and handed out samples of Quake Hold putty used for securing valuables. "Take the time, it doesn't cost you much, its inexpensive insurance for about 100 bucks you can secure all the things in your home," said Lowe. "One hundred bucks is not much to spend when you're talking about protecting your family from injuries, protecting your possessions, because there are some things that can break that have particular value to them and you can't replace them, whether it's a family heirloom or treasured piece of art." The Office of Emergency Management is available year-round to offer preparedness guidance. To make an appointment to review your preparedness plan, call 661-277-4433. No appointment is necessary to pick up written materials. Read more about preparing for various emergencies and disasters at http://www.beready.af.mil/.