"September in Mexico: Reflections on Earthquakes and the Search for Safety"

The month of September, known in Mexico for both its patriotic celebrations and the frequency of earthquakes, marks the beginning of a period in which the population remains on alert. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in the central and southwestern regions of the country, where areas such as Veracruz, Xalapa, Córdoba, and Orizaba face a higher seismic risk. The memories of the tremors of 1985, 2017, and 2022 still linger in the collective consciousness, marking a significant turning point in the culture of civil protection in Mexico. The 8.1 magnitude earthquake that shook Mexico City on September 19, 1985, left deep scars—not only physical ones on the infrastructure but also emotional ones on the population. The tragedy, which claimed thousands of lives and destroyed entire buildings, prompted authorities to promote a culture of prevention and response to natural disasters. Since then, schools have integrated drills and civil protection education programs, aiming to prepare new generations to face emergency situations. However, despite these efforts, the reality is that most of the population is not fully prepared for an earthquake. The uncertainty about how each individual will react in a critical moment remains a challenge. In this context, innovation and research have become vital to improving the safety of residents in seismic zones. Earthquake experts from various countries have been working on creative solutions to mitigate the risks associated with these phenomena. In the United States, for example, sliding stairs have been developed that can be installed on the walls of tall buildings, facilitating quicker evacuations. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, personal elevators are being used that automatically activate from balconies, allowing residents to descend safely during a tremor. In this realm of innovation, the work of Chinese inventor Wang Wenxi stands out, who has designed an "earthquake-proof bed." This bed, resembling a cube, is equipped with a conventional mattress. However, its true functionality is revealed during an earthquake: upon detecting seismic movement, the system activates, opening the cube and allowing the bed, along with the person occupying it, to descend and be sheltered in a closed cabin. This invention began development in 2010 and has undergone multiple improvements over time, with the goal of providing a higher level of safety. Nevertheless, its high cost has limited widespread adoption, making it currently affordable only for a select few. Despite this, Chinese authorities have expressed their intention to implement these beds in all homes and apartments located in seismic activity zones in the near future. The implementation of such technologies in Mexico could be a viable solution for improving the safety of the population in a country that, as seen, is prone to tremors. The experiences and lessons learned from past tragedies could be valuable in incorporating innovations like these into urban infrastructure. As September approaches, it is crucial to remember the importance of prevention and preparedness for natural disasters. History has taught us that nature can be unpredictable, but with the implementation of safety measures and the adoption of innovations, it is possible to minimize the impact of earthquakes on people's lives. Thus, while celebrating the patriotic festivities, it is also a time to reflect on how to enhance the resilience of our society in the face of the challenges posed by seismic activity. The combination of education, technology, and social awareness could be key for Mexicans to face the month of September with greater security and peace of mind.