Preparing for an earthquake

Earthquakes can strike without warning, which makes preparation one of the most effective ways to stay safe. While we cannot control when or where earthquakes occur, we can reduce the risk of injury and damage by understanding our surroundings, planning ahead, and knowing how to respond when the ground begins to shake.

Understanding your risk

Preparation begins with knowing how likely earthquakes are where you live. Some regions sit directly on or near fault lines, where tectonic plates meet and shift. In these areas, the chance of stronger or more frequent earthquakes is higher. Learning about the seismic history of your region, the condition of nearby infrastructure, and whether buildings are constructed to withstand shaking provides a clearer picture of the risks you may face.

Creating a household emergency plan

Every household should have a clear, practiced plan for what to do during an earthquake. Identify the safest places indoors, such as under sturdy tables or beside interior walls, and avoid areas near windows, tall furniture, or heavy objects that could fall. Decide on a meeting point outside where everyone can gather if you need to leave the building quickly. Assign tasks if needed — for example, who grabs the emergency kit, or who checks on pets or children. Practicing “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” helps ensure that in a real emergency, the response is automatic rather than panicked.

Making your home safer

Small changes around your home can make a big difference during an earthquake. Securing furniture and heavy items can prevent injuries and reduce damage, especially in rooms like the kitchen or living room where many objects are stored on shelves.

Quick steps you can start today:

Fasten bookcases and shelving units to the wall
Install safety latches on cabinets to prevent them from opening during shaking
Anchor large appliances like the fridge or heavy TVs
Store heavy objects on lower shelves where they are less likely to fall

These steps are simple and can be done gradually over time. For a complete room-by-room guide and detailed instructions, see our article on making your home safer for an earthquake.

Building an emergency kit

An emergency kit ensures you have essential supplies if you need to evacuate quickly or if services are temporarily unavailable. Many households already have most of the necessary items — it's just about organizing them.

Basic items your kit should include:

Bottled water (3 days supply per person)
Non-perishable food (3 days supply)
Flashlight and spare batteries
First aid kit and any personal medications
Important documents stored in a waterproof pouch

Once the essentials are prepared, you can expand your kit with tools, blankets, and backup power items. To learn more about assembling a complete kit, see our article on building an earthquake emergency kit.

After the shaking stops

Earthquakes often come with aftershocks, which can be strong. As soon as it is safe, check for injuries and provide first aid if needed. Avoid damaged structures and report hazards like gas leaks or downed electrical lines. Communication networks may be overloaded, so using text messages or online platforms is often more reliable than calling. Pay attention to official guidance from emergency services, especially if evacuations or safety advisories are issued.

Key takeaways

Earthquake preparation begins with understanding your local risk
A practiced household plan ensures quick, calm action during shaking
Emergency supplies support safety if services are disrupted
Securing your home reduces the risk of injury from falling objects
Staying aware and cautious after the earthquake helps prevent further harm

Being prepared does not remove the uncertainty of earthquakes — but it greatly increases safety and strengthens resilience when the unexpected happens.