Earthquakes strike without warning, making year-round preparedness crucial. Their effects can range from structural damage and landslides to potential tsunamis in high-risk areas like California, Alaska, and Hawaii. Being informed and proactive is key to staying safe.

Be Prepared
  • Practice Protective Steps: Get familiar with Drop, Cover, and Hold On techniques. Practice them with your family or coworkers so everyone knows what to do during an earthquake.
  • Create an Emergency Plan: Make a family emergency communication plan with a designated out-of-state contact and clear strategies for reconnecting in case you're separated.
  • Prepare a Supply Kit: Build a disaster supply kit with essentials like food, water, flashlights, batteries, medication, and a whistle. Having a well-stocked kit ensures you're ready for any situation.
  • Secure Your Home or Building: Anchor heavy items like furniture, TVs, water heaters, and objects that hang on walls. Store fragile or heavy items on low shelves. If possible, retrofit your home or building to improve its structural integrity.
  • Plan Financial Preparedness: Safeguard critical documents, create emergency savings, and ensure proper insurance coverage to reduce financial impacts during disasters. Learn more at Ready.gov Financial Preparedness.
Be Safe

During Shaking: Follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” strategy. Quickly drop to the floor, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table, and hold on until the shaking stops. If no shelter is available, protect your head and neck with your arms and crouch near an interior wall.

Wherever You Are:

  • Indoors: Stay put. Avoid standing near windows, mirrors, or any object that could shatter. Doorframes are not the safe havens they’re often thought to be.
  • Outside: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, or power lines. Drop and cover until the shaking subsides.
  • In a Car: Safely pull over, set your parking brake, and remain inside.
  • In Bed: Roll onto your stomach and cover your head and neck with a pillow.

Utilities: Only turn off gas, water, or electricity if you suspect a leak or short circuit. Leave the building and call professionals for assistance if necessary.

Get Help

After the Earthquake:

  • Expect aftershocks and be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On again if necessary.
  • If in a damaged building, exit carefully and avoid re-entering.
  • Trapped? Bang on a pipe or wall to signal for help and cover your mouth with your shirt to protect you from dust.

Seek Assistance:

  • Document damage to your property with photos and videos for insurance claims. Begin your claims process via World’s claims page.
  • Access recovery support and safety tips through FEMA’s Earthquake Resources.
  • If in a tsunami-risk area, move inland or to higher ground immediately after the initial shaking to avoid potential waves.

Rebuild Safely:

Follow FEMA’s guidance on earthquake-resistant construction and retrofitting to minimize future risks. Learn more at Earthquake Country Alliance or consult this earthquake safety guide for home reinforcement tips.

By preparing now, staying safe during tremors, and seeking the right support afterward, you can protect your loved ones and recover effectively. Use the resources available to face earthquakes with confidence and resilience.