When the Ground Shakes, Have a Plan

How to prepare for an earthquake

We can’t predict when the next major earthquake will happen, but can decide how prepared we’ll be when it does.

California has experienced some of the most devastating earthquakes in our history, from the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to Loma Prieta in 1989—and we have experienced many smaller earthquakes in recent months. Each one reminds us how quickly life can change when the ground begins to shake.

We can’t predict when the next major earthquake will happen, but we can decide how prepared we will be when it does.

Take a second to think about what happens in the first few minutes after a major earthquake. Roads may be damaged. Power could be out. Cell service may be overwhelmed. Firefighters and other first responders will be working around the clock, and it could take time for help to reach everyone in need.

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Here are five ways Californians can prepare now:

1. Make a household emergency plan.
   Talk with family members about where you’ll meet if you become separated, how you’ll communicate if phones aren’t working, and who may need additional assistance — including children, older family members, neighbors, and pets.
2. Secure your home.
   Secure heavy furniture, televisions, and other items that could fall during an earthquake, and identify safe places where you can take cover.
3. Prepare to be on your own for several days.
   Keep an emergency kit stocked with water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and other essentials. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the kit is and can access it if the power is out.
4. Know what to do when the shaking starts.
   Remember: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get down, protect your head and neck, take cover under sturdy furniture if possible, and hold on until the shaking stops.
5. Learn about earthquake early warning.
   California’s earthquake warning technology can provide precious seconds of warning before strong shaking reaches your location. Take a few minutes now to learn about available alerts and preparedness resources.

Preparing for an earthquake doesn’t have to be complicated. Make a plan. Build a kit. Secure your home. Know what to do.

Visit the official Earthquake Warning California website to download the free MyShake app (from the App Store or Google Play) and the Earthquake Preparedness Guide.