Earthquakes

The United States Geological Survey reports that there is a 46% chance of a 7.5 or larger earthquake in California in the next 30 years. Luckily, you will have a 100% chance of being ready after following the instructions in this section.

When the earth begins to shake, you will need to look out for collapsing walls, flying objects, and getting trapped. Earthquakes also tend to cause fires, landslides, floods, and tsunamis, so you should check those pages as well.

The Alameda County Sheriff's Office provides information on earthquake preparedness in a printer-friendly format:

• Staying Safe Where the Earth Shakes (PDF) *

Before

• Find a safe place in every room that can be used as cover in the event of an earthquake
• Bolt bookcases, cabinets, and other tall furniture to wall studs
• Put child-proof latches on cabinet doors and cupboards to prevent items from falling out during the shaking
• Strap your water heater to the wall studs
• Practice drop, cover, and hold
  • Drop to the ground
  • Take cover by getting under a sturdy desk or table
  • Hold on to your cover until the shaking stops
• Know how to turn off utilities if they are damaged
• Prepare an earthquake kit:
  • 24-Hour Earthquake Kit

During

• Drop, cover, and hold!

Additional Information

For additional information, visit:

• https://www.earthquakecountry.org/prepare/