How to Prepare for an Earthquake
The Earth’s outer layer is divided into several major plates that constantly move and shift in imperceptible ways; earthquakes occur when the pressure that builds from plate movement is released. Earthquakes cause major disruption to the Earth’s surface, without warning, and can result in major damage or injury. The states at the highest risk of earthquakes are Alaska, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming.
How to Prepare for an Earthquake
Earthquakes occur without warning, so it’s especially important to prepare beforehand. Make sure these supplies are in your disaster supplies kit:
- Flashlight with extra batteries (never use matches after an earthquake, as gas lines may have leaked)
- Portable, battery-operated radio/TV and extra batteries
- Sturdy shoes
- Fire extinguisher
Identify and Secure Earthquake Hazards in Your Home
Loose, unstable items can cause a lot of damage during an earthquake. If you live in an earthquake zone, be sure to:
- Fasten shelves securely to the wall
- Store large, heavy objects on lower shelves
- Store breakable objects and flammable products (such as pesticides) on lower shelves, with cabinet doors closed
- Brace overhead light fixtures
- Secure your water heater by strapping it to wall studs and bolting it to the floor
- Repair cracks in your ceiling and foundation and check to make sure that your home has no structural defects
- Repair any defective electrical wiring or leaky gas connections that could lead to fires
- Install flexible connections on gas and water lines
Locate Safe Zones in the Home
Most earthquake injuries occur not from ground movement but from falling debris or flying glass. Safe zones—areas in your home that pose less risk of injury—should be:
- Away from tall, unsecured furniture, hanging objects, or anything that could collapse or fall on you
- Away from mirrors, windows, pictures, or any place where glass could shatter
- Away from fireplaces
- Away from exterior walls
- Along an inside wall
- Under sturdy furniture, such as a heavy desk or table
What to Do During an Earthquake
Practice these strategies to stay safe during an earthquake:
- Drop, cover, hold: This is a three-step technique:
- Drop to the ground.
- Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a desk or table.
- Hold on until the shaking stops.
- Move to the closest safe zone: Limit your movement during an earthquake. Go to the nearest safe zone and wait for the shaking to subside.
- Stay aware if you‘re trapped under debris:
- Cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust.
- Rather than shout, tap on a pipe or wall to signal for help.
- Don’t light matches.
- Don’t move around and kick up dust.
- Proceed with caution after the earthquake is over:
- Expect aftershocks (additional, smaller earthquakes).
- Be aware of unstable ground.
- Check for hazards, including fires, gas leaks, and electrical damage.
