During an earthquake study conference May 4 in Long Beach, California, Thomas Jordan, director of the Southern California Earthquake Center said a section of the Southern California San Andreas fault is "locked, loaded and ready to roll."

“The springs of that fault have been wound pretty tightly, and the situation is there where we could have major earthquakes in California," said Jordan.

The movement of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates, according to Jordan, should amount to a shift of about 16 ft. every 100 years. The southern part of the fault has been silent since a 7.9-magnitude earthquake hit in 1857, making the movement of the plates long overdue.

The U.S. Geological Survey, published “The ShakeOut Scenario" in 2008, with the goal of identifying the physical, social and economic consequences of a major earthquake in Southern California. In the survey, the scenario earthquake estimated possible damages, including 1,800 deaths and $213 billion of economic losses.

Now, I don’t know about you, but the thought of an 8.0-magnitude earthquake scares me. Once I heard the news reports about the latest San Andreas news, I immediately wanted to be educated about the preparation of an earthquake. It is easy to think about getting prepared or holding it off until tomorrow, or next week. But earthquakes can occur at any time without warning. Without sounding like a scared nut, here are some tips to help prepare for the Big One or any other earthquake.

Make a plan.

In the event of a major quake, communication could be down and daily utilities could be knocked out. Having a preparation plan with family is important in ensuring the maximum amount of safety and communication. Identifying safe areas in your living area beforehand can help save time when an earthquake hits.

Organize disaster supplies.

Although it sounds like you are preparing for a zombie apocalypse, gathering water, food and safety supplies will help beyond measure after a major earthquake occurs. For a list of supplies, resources can be found at the Earthquake Country disaster supplies webpage.

When it hits, drop, cover and hold on.

Earthquake Country Alliance suggests dropping down onto your hands and knees, cover your head and neck (and your entire body if possible) under a table or desk and to hold on to shelter until the shaking stops. The site also gives more tips about what to do in an earthquake if you are outside, in your car, in bed or in another scenario.

It has been said that movies dramatize real events, but if the movie "San Andreas" is even remotely close to what could happen, I'd rather prepare now.