In a recent turn of events, a 4.6-magnitude earthquake hit Los Angeles, causing disruptions in various parts of the city. One notable incident occurred at the TMZ newsroom, where the tremors interrupted their hectic work environment. While some staff members knew exactly what to do during an earthquake, others were caught off guard.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the first thing to do during an earthquake is to drop to the ground before it knocks you down. The next step is to crawl underneath a sturdy desk or table to protect yourself from falling objects. In the absence of such structures, seeking shelter near low-lying furniture and covering your neck and head is advised. It is crucial to hold onto your makeshift shelter until the shaking stops and to hope for the best.
Charlie Neff, one of TMZ’s staff members, demonstrated her knowledge and readiness by following the CDC’s guidelines. As soon as the building started shaking, she promptly dropped to the floor and rolled under her desk for protection. Charlie, being a native of Los Angeles, attributed her preparedness to the numerous elementary school earthquake drills she had participated in during her childhood. This incident serves as a testament to the importance of teaching and practicing safety protocols from a young age.
On the other hand, Brendon Geoffrion, Charlie’s deskmate, did not exhibit the same level of preparedness. Instead of seeking immediate shelter, he began wandering around and investigating the ceiling. Brendon’s actions were the complete opposite of the suggested guidelines, highlighting the importance of proper education and awareness regarding earthquake safety.
Charles Latibeaudiere, another TMZ staff member, didn’t drop to the ground but experienced a significant jump when the earthquake started. Although initially startled, he quickly regained his composure and checked on his colleagues to ensure everyone’s well-being. It is essential to remain calm and focused during such situations, as panic can often lead to more harm than the actual earthquake itself.
The TMZ office captured the intensity of the earthquake on camera, providing viewers with a clear understanding of the severity of the shaking. John Brix, seen on the right side of the screen wearing a brown beanie, swiftly disappeared under his desk as soon as the tremors began. His quick response demonstrated his familiarity with earthquake safety measures.
Fortunately, despite the unexpected jolt, the TMZ newsroom escaped any major damage, and all staff members are reported to be safe. This incident serves as a reminder that earthquakes can vary in intensity and impact individuals differently. Some may perceive it as someone shaking their chair, while others may mistake it for a heavy gust of wind. In such situations, it is always better to err on the side of caution and follow the “drop, cover, and hold” protocol.
Interestingly, TMZ’s leader, Harvey Levin, was not present in the newsroom during the earthquake. He happened to be at the dentist’s office at the time. Let’s hope the earthquake didn’t cause any additional discomfort or rattle a tooth loose for him.
In conclusion, the recent earthquake in Los Angeles provided a valuable lesson to the TMZ newsroom and viewers alike. It emphasized the importance of earthquake preparedness and following safety guidelines. While some staff members demonstrated their knowledge and acted promptly, others were reminded of the significance of proper education and awareness. Ultimately, everyone’s well-being was ensured, and the incident serves as a reminder that being prepared for natural disasters is crucial for personal safety.
