The discussion was part of a commemorative conference at San Francisco's City Hall this morning, remembering community actions that helped the city recover after the quake and urging similar cooperative efforts in future disasters.
"We promised those we lost and their families that we would be better prepared, so since Loma Prieta, we've made great strides ... we've built the city better," California Emergency Management Agency Acting Secretary Mike Dayton said today.
Dayton said the agency is working to send the message to San Francisco residents that preparedness is key for future earthquakes and other emergencies.
Federal Emergency Management Agency Deputy Administrator Rich Serino echoed Dayton's words, highlighting the critical role of "neighbors helping neighbors" in increasing survival rates during emergencies.
"The most important part of the team is survivors and the public at large," he said. "They have to be involved in taking care of themselves and taking care of their communities."
Serino and San Francisco Department of Public Health Director Barbara Garcia said it's also crucial that members of the public, government and private businesses -- from large supermarkets to small local restaurants -- work together to help cities recover from catastrophes.
Police and firefighters are also set to commemorate the quake at an open house event beginning at 3 p.m. today at the San Francisco Fire Department Museum.
