Make a Plan and Sign up for Alerts
Our community just faced a natural disaster in the form of storms and flooding. There are other possible disasters that can occur in California, including earthquakes. The best time to prepare for an earthquake is before it happens. Whether you live, go to school, or work in an area prone to earthquakes, it is essential to have an emergency plan in place to know what to do if an earthquake were to happen and how to recover quickly following an earthquake.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has a statewide warning system, Earthquake Warning California, to give residents crucial seconds to take cover before you feel shaking. Visit earthquake.ca.gov to learn more and download the MyShake App to your mobile phone.
Individuals can play a key role in helping others appropriately prepare for the next major earthquake. Share information with neighbors, family members, friends, and others within your community.
Here are some important safety tips to help be earthquake ready:
- Talk about earthquakes with your family so everyone knows what to do. Discussions ahead of time help reduce fear, particularly for younger children.
- Protect your property. Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, televisions, and objects that hang on walls.
- Depending on your needs, there are alternatives to Drop, Cover & Hold On. If using a walker or wheelchair: Lock, Cover & Hold On. If in a recliner or bed: cover your head & neck with your arms or a pillow.
- Remember that aftershocks can happen after an earthquake. Text loved ones to let them know you’re ok instead of calling. Save your battery by only using your phone for emergencies.
- After an earthquake happens, clean-up begins. Wear protective clothing. Put on thick-soled shoes, work gloves, and goggles. Work with others to lift heavy objects.
A thoughtful preparedness plan can help reduce the number of injuries and deaths during an earthquake and lead to a quick recovery for a resilient California.
To learn which resources are available to you and how to react, visit https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes and https://earthquake.ca.gov/.