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Seismic Alert System in Mexico City: A sociological perspective

Elia Arjonilla
Direccion de Divulgacion de la Ciencia, UNAM, Mexico, D.F. 04510, Mexico. Tel/Fax: +525-676-2970,
E-mail: arjonill@servidor.unam.mx

Abstract:
The Seismic Alert System (SAS) of Mexico City is a technological development which has overcome some handicaps in order to achieve its full potential. This paper considers some of the issues for collectively achieving the goal of mitigating seismic vulnerability.

This review is done from a sociological perspective which states that the most effective structure for a warning system is that of an integrated warning system. The potential benefit of the alert is illustrated by comparing the response of school children in institutions equipped with the seismic alert as compared to without it.