Earthquakes strike without warning and can cause building collapse, fires, landslides, and tsunamis. While most associated with the West Coast, significant earthquake zones exist across the US including the New Madrid zone (Central US), Charleston SC area, and parts of the Northeast.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Assess your risk — Determine the seismic risk for your area using USGS earthquake hazard maps. Learn whether your home was built to modern seismic codes.
- Secure your space — Anchor tall furniture (bookcases, dressers, shelving) to wall studs with L-brackets or furniture straps. Strap water heaters. Secure TVs and heavy electronics. Move heavy object...
- Identify safe spots in each room — Under sturdy tables or desks, against interior walls away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects that could fall. Practice getting to these spots quickly.
- Create an emergency plan — Establish family meeting points, out-of-area contact, and communication methods. Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity. Plan for being separated during the day.
- Build emergency supplies — Assemble kits for home (2-week supply) and car (3-day supply) including water, food, first aid, flashlight, radio, batteries, medications, dust masks, and sturdy shoes ne...
- Strengthen your home — Consider seismic retrofitting (bolt the house to its foundation, brace cripple walls, secure the chimney). Consult a structural engineer if your home was built before modern ...
- Review insurance — Standard homeowner's insurance typically does not cover earthquake damage. Purchase earthquake insurance or evaluate the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) if in California.
- Minimize financial hardship — Keep copies of important financial documents, insurance policies, and contact information in a waterproof container and in digital cloud storage.
- Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On — Drop to hands and knees. Cover your head and neck under a sturdy desk or table. Hold on to the legs of the table and be prepared to move with it. Practice this r...
- After an earthquake — Check for injuries and provide first aid. Check for gas leaks (smell, hissing sound) and turn off gas if suspected. Exit damaged buildings carefully. Watch for aftershocks. Do...
Common Mistakes
- Standing in a doorway
- Running outside during shaking
- Not securing water heaters
- Ignoring aftershocks
- No shoes near the bed
Pro Tips
- Practice earthquake drills during the annual Great ShakeOut (third Thursday o...
- Keep a wrench or gas shut-off tool attached to your gas meter so you can turn...
- After a major earthquake, your water heater holds 40-80 gallons of drinkable ...
- Photograph each room in your home for insurance documentation before an earth...
- Download the MyShake app for early warning notifications in some areas