The article challenges the carefree stereotype of Southern California by highlighting the dangers posed by natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires. Author Steve Lopez shares personal experiences of preparing for potential catastrophes, including hiring a seismic safety engineer and purchasing a motorized pump to protect his home from fires. Despite these precautions, Lopez expresses ongoing anxiety about the lack of complete assurance that these measures will be effective during crises, illustrating the stark reality faced by Californians.
If a 7.8 struck, seismologists said that day near Palm Springs, the ground beneath us would shift, and within 10 seconds, people standing face to face on opposite sides of the fault would be as much as 30 feet apart.
Last week, I bought a motorized pump with a 50-foot hose so I can use swimming pool water in the defense of my house during a fire.
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