As a realtor in the San Fernando Valley, safety is always top of mind, especially with the recent quakes following the 4.7 earthquake near Malibu on September 12. 

Given these ongoing quakes, it's essential for residents to take advantage of tools like the ShakeAlert App offered by the U.S. Geological Survey. This app provides crucial seconds of warning before strong shaking starts, giving residents a chance to take cover and automated systems time to respond. While it can’t predict earthquakes, ShakeAlert detects ground movement immediately and sends out alerts as fast as possible.

It’s important to note that those very close to the epicenter might not receive an alert before the shaking begins due to the speed of the waves. But for the rest of us in the Valley, having this tool could make all the difference. You can download the MyShake app for free or use the built-in earthquake alert system on Android phones. Stay safe and stay prepared!