New Earthquake Alert Available

The MyShake App is available on the Apple App Store or Google Play  |  illustration from Southern Marin Fire District  |  post by Larry Clinton

After being shaken up by the earthquake on Thursday afternoon, July 8, I was pleased to learn of a new earthquake warning app from the Southern Marin Fire District.

By downloading the free MyShakeApp  and adjusting phone settings, people can get a jump start, in some cases before shaking can be felt, to take protective measures. App location services must be set to “always-on” so that ground sensors can alert those in the nearby area when shaking is detected.

If you receive a warning or feel shaking, there are just moments to act. There may be circumstances where a warning is issued, but no shaking occurs.

When an earthquake warning is issued, you should quickly take protective actions to stay safe, such as dropping to the ground, covering your head with your arms, and holding onto your neck with both hands until the shaking stops. Do not stand in doorways or near glass windows.

It is always better to be on the side of caution when it comes to earthquakes, so please share this information with friends and family in California to help spread the word about the technology available to help keep them safe. Earthquake alerts are also included in new or updated Android devices, using the same technology as the MyShake App.

Visit earthquake.ca.gov to learn more about the latest tools and resources, and how to use them. You can also sign up for a regular partner e-newsletter on the California Office of Emergency Services website that includes the latest news and information about Earthquake Warning California.