Earthquake Preparedness

What to Expect

A major earthquake on the San Andreas Fault will be sudden and violent. There will be no warning. Afterward, expect no power, no water, no cell service, no internet, and blocked roads — potentially for days or weeks. Traffic lights will be out. Gas lines may rupture. Buildings and chimneys may be damaged. Aftershocks can be nearly as strong as the initial quake and continue for days.

In our area, the hillside terrain and narrow winding roads mean that landslides and fallen trees can isolate entire neighborhoods. Emergency services will be overwhelmed and may not reach you quickly. You and your neighbors will need to be self-sufficient.

Prepare Your Home

• Secure your water heater with earthquake straps
• Anchor tall bookcases, dressers, and shelving to wall studs
• Use museum putty or straps to secure TVs, monitors, and heavy objects on shelves
• Install latches on kitchen cabinets to prevent contents from spilling out
• Move heavy objects to lower shelves
• Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight under each bed (broken glass is the most common post-quake injury)
• Know where your gas shut-off valve is and keep a wrench nearby
• Know where your water shut-off valve is
• Know where your electrical panel is and how to shut it off
• Check your chimney — unreinforced masonry chimneys can collapse in moderate quakes
• Consider earthquake insurance (standard homeowner policies do not cover earthquake damage)

Build Your Supplies

After a major earthquake, you may not be able to leave your home or neighborhood for days. Roads may be blocked and stores will be closed. Plan to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks.

• Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 14 days
• Keep 2 weeks of non-perishable food that does not require cooking or refrigeration
• Have a manual can opener
• Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for emergency broadcasts
• Stock extra batteries, flashlights, and portable phone chargers
• Keep a well-stocked first aid kit
• Have a supply of any prescription medications (at least 2 weeks)
• Keep cash in small bills (ATMs and credit card readers will not work without power)
• Have a portable camping stove or grill with fuel for cooking
• Keep supplies for your pets (food, water, medications)

Your go-bag covers the first 2-3 days. These supplies are for sheltering in place at home for an extended period.

During the Shaking

• DROP to your hands and knees immediately
• Take COVER under a sturdy desk, table, or bench — protect your head and neck
• HOLD ON to your shelter and be prepared to move with it until the shaking stops
• If no shelter is nearby, crouch next to an interior wall and protect your head with your arms
• Stay away from windows, exterior walls, and anything that could fall on you
• Do NOT run outside during the shaking — falling debris is the greatest danger
• If you are outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines
• If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road away from overpasses and bridges, and stay in the car

After the Shaking Stops

• Check yourself for injuries — treat your own injuries first
• Put on sturdy shoes before moving (broken glass everywhere)
• If you smell gas, open windows, leave the building immediately, and do NOT use light switches or matches
• Shut off gas at the meter if you suspect a leak (only do this if you know how — you will need the gas company to turn it back on)
• Check your home for structural damage — do not enter if it looks unsafe
• Check on your family members
• Check on your immediate neighbors, especially elderly, disabled, or those living alone
• Use text messages instead of phone calls — texts get through when voice calls cannot
• Expect aftershocks — they can be strong and continue for days. Drop, cover, and hold on each time
• Listen to a battery-powered radio for emergency information and instructions
• Do not drive unless absolutely necessary — keep roads clear for emergency vehicles
• If your home is safe, shelter in place — do not go to a hospital or fire station unless you have a life-threatening emergency

Your Neighborhood Matters

After a major earthquake, your neighbors are your most immediate resource. Roads may be impassable, and professional responders will be triaging across the entire district. If your neighborhood has a Ready Community with a Node, you will have a place to gather, share information, and coordinate help even without phones or power.