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Earthquakes
Earthquakes are short, intense periods of shaking in response to a sudden movement of Earth's tectonic plates. These events can be scary, dangerous, and deadly if we are not prepared. Below is a short, helpful guide on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.
Shaking intensity hazard map of the United States.
BAN
Before an Earthquake
Many things can be done to protect yourself and your home from earthquake damage, yet few people take these three necessary precautions.
1. Install a Quake Alarm
Some earthquake waves travel faster than others, similar to the way thunder rumbles before lightning strikes. Quake Alarms, the device pictured to the right, can detect these fast waves and will give you a few seconds of warning. When the alarm goes off, quickly seek shelter before the intense shaking begins. You can purchase these online for roughly $30.
2. Perform a Home Assesment
Earthquakes don't kill, falling objects do. Walk through your home and identify any heavy falling objects that may become a threat in an earthquake. Secure large objects, such as cabinets, bookshelves, or dressers with furniture straps, and secure other hazardous objects with putty or gel to prevent them from falling in the event of an earthquake. When possible, store heavier items closer to the floor. This youtube video from Dr. Ron Harris' Quakebusters team can show you how to perform this assessment in your own home.
3. Learn about Local Resources and Guidelines
Educate yourself about local emergency services and resources that can help you and your family during an earthquake. Additionally, consider making a personal or family disaster preparedness and emergency plan to ensure that everyone is as safe as possible during an earthquake.
DAE
During an Earthquake
If you are...
Indoors:
DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON. Find cover under a desk, chair, or table; if you are not near one of those objects, drop to the floor against an interior wall and protect your head and neck. If you are in bed, stay where you are and protect your head with a pillow. Do not go outside until well after the shaking stops.
Outdoors:
If you can safely do so, move to a clear area away from tall buildings, trees, power lines, and other hazards. Assume fallen power lines are live.
Driving:
When you are able to do so safely, pull over and engage your parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, trees, or power lines that might collapse or fall on the vehicle. Stay inside the vehicle until well after the shaking is over; if a power line falls on your vehicle wait until a trained professional removes the hazard.
AAE
After an Earthquake
Check for Injuries and Damage
Ensure that you are safe and uninjured before attempting to help others. If you are able, provide first aid. If you are not, contact emergency resources in your community to get help. After that, check for damaging and hazardous conditions such as fires, gas leaks, downed utility lines, or spills. If your home is seriously damaged, evacuate.
OR
Other Resources
View these resources for more information on how to keep you and your family safe in the event of an earthquake.
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