Emergency Preparedness/Disaster Services

512 - How to Prepare for an Earthquake

Earthquakes occur regularly in California. Experience has shown that those who are prepared feel more secure and are less likely to suffer injuries and costly damage to their homes and businesses. Earthquake preparation can be a good family or community project. To prepare for earthquakes, it is important to keep the following information in mind:

• Look for items in your home that could become a hazard in an earthquake:
• Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas and inflexible utility connections.
• Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances.
• Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects.
• Store bottled foods, glass, china and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that can be fastened shut.
• Anchor overhead lighting fixtures.
• Check and repair deep plaster cracks in ceilings and foundations. Get expert advice, especially if there are signs of structural defects.
• Be sure the house is firmly anchored to its foundation.
• Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. Check with your local utilities for instructions.
• Hold earthquake drills with your family:
• Locate safe spots in each room--under a sturdy table or against an inside wall.
• Reinforce this information by physically placing yourself and your family in these locations.
• Identify danger zones in each room--near windows where glass can shatter or near bookcases or furniture that can fall over. During an earthquake, each family member should move away from these danger zones to the nearest safe spot.
• Gather emergency supplies and prepare for evacuation in case earthquake damage is severe.
• Develop a plan for reuniting your family after an earthquake. Establish an out-of-state telephone contact for family members to call to let others know that they're okay.
• Review your insurance policies. Some damage may be covered even without specific earthquake insurance. Protect important home and business papers.

For a comprehensive "Emergency Planning Checklist," please refer to Message 504.