Earthquake Safety: How to Prepare and Survive

Earthquake preparedness can mean the difference between life and death. Unlike hurricanes or blizzards, earthquakes strike without warning, making advance preparation essential for everyone living in seismically active regions. ## Before an Earthquake: Preparation The most critical preparation happens long before the ground shakes. Start by identifying hazards in your home. Secure heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to wall studs. Install latches on cabinets to prevent contents from spilling during shaking. Move heavy objects from high shelves to lower positions. Build an emergency supply kit with at least 72 hours of provisions. Include one gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, medications, important documents in waterproof containers, cash, and a whistle to signal for help if trapped. Create a family communication plan. Designate an out-of-area contact person everyone can reach. Identify safe meeting spots both near your home and in your neighborhood. Practice the plan with your family at least twice per year. Learn how to shut off your gas, water, and electricity. Gas leaks after earthquakes cause fires. Keep a wrench near the gas meter and know the shut-off procedure. Only shut off gas if you smell it or see damage to the line. ## During an Earthquake: Drop, Cover, Hold On When shaking starts, immediately Drop to your hands and knees. This position prevents being knocked down and allows you to crawl to shelter. Take Cover under a sturdy desk, table, or against an interior wall. Protect your head and neck with your arms. Hold On to your shelter until the shaking stops completely. Common myths can be dangerous. Do not stand in a doorway — modern doorways are no stronger than other parts of a building. Do not run outside during shaking — falling debris near building exteriors is a major cause of injury. Do not use the "triangle of life" method promoted in viral emails — this is not endorsed by any major emergency management agency. If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow. If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires. If you are driving, pull over to a clear area, stop, and stay inside the vehicle until shaking stops. Avoid bridges, overpasses, and power lines. ## After an Earthquake: Critical First Steps After the shaking stops, expect aftershocks. They can be strong enough to cause additional damage. Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid as needed before seeking professional help. Check your home for structural damage before re-entering. Look for cracks in walls and foundation, gas leaks (smell, hissing sound), water line breaks, electrical damage (sparks, broken wires, burning smells), and chimney damage. If you suspect structural damage, evacuate and do not re-enter until inspected. If you are in a coastal area and the earthquake was strong or lasted more than 20 seconds, move to higher ground immediately. A tsunami may follow within minutes. Do not wait for an official warning. Monitor news via battery-powered radio for emergency instructions. Use text messages instead of phone calls to keep networks clear for emergency responders. Document damage with photos for insurance claims. ## Long-Term Preparedness Consider retrofitting your home if it was built before modern seismic building codes. Cripple wall bracing, foundation bolting, and soft-story retrofitting can dramatically reduce damage. Many states offer incentive programs for residential retrofitting. Review and update your emergency plan and supplies annually. Check expiration dates on food, water, medications, and batteries. Update contact information and ensure all family members know the plan. Participate in the annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill held every October. Earthquake insurance is a separate policy from standard homeowners insurance. Evaluate your risk, the value of your home, and your ability to absorb uninsured losses. In high-risk areas, the cost of insurance is often justified by the potential for catastrophic loss.