Earthquake 101: What to Do Before, During, and After the Shaking
Earthquakes can strike without warning, leaving little time to react.
Being prepared can make all the difference.
Whether you live in a seismic hotspot or just want to be ready, this guide covers the essentials for before, during, and after an earthquake.
Let’s break it down.
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Before the Shaking: Prepare Now
Preparation is your best defense.
Earthquakes don’t send invitations, so take these steps to be ready:
Secure Your Space
Bolt heavy furniture like bookshelves and cabinets to walls.
Use straps or putty to keep TVs, computers, and appliances in place.
Store heavy items on lower shelves to prevent them from falling.
Make a Plan
Discuss with your household where to meet after a quake (e.g., a nearby park) and who to contact out of state.
Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills twice a year.
Build an Emergency Kit
Stock a backpack with water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days), non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, a whistle, a multi-tool, blankets, and copies of IDs.
Keep it accessible.
Craig
Know Your Home
Locate gas, water, and electric shut-off valves. Learn how to turn them off (a wrench for gas, a simple twist for water).
Check if your home is bolted to its foundation, especially for older structures.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local earthquake alerts via apps like MyShake or USGS Earthquake Notification Service.
Know your area’s seismic risks, check fault maps on USGS.gov.
During the Shaking: Stay Safe
When the ground starts moving, your instincts might scream “run!” but that’s often the worst choice.
Here’s what to do:
- Drop, Cover, Hold On: Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck (ideally under a sturdy table or desk), and hold on until the shaking stops. If no table’s nearby, move to an interior wall away from windows and heavy objects.
- If You’re in Bed: Stay there. Cover your head with a pillow to protect against falling objects.
- If You’re Outside: Move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees. Drop to the ground to avoid being knocked over.
- If You’re Driving: Pull over to a safe spot away from bridges, overpasses, and poles. Stay in the car with your seatbelt on until the shaking stops.
- Avoid Doorways and Running Outside: Doorways aren’t safer than other parts of a modern home, and running outside risks injury from falling debris.
After the Shaking: Recover Smart
The danger doesn’t end when the shaking stops.
Aftershocks and hazards like fires or gas leaks can follow.
Check for Injuries
Administer first aid if needed, but don’t move seriously injured people unless they’re in immediate danger.
Call 911 if you can.
Inspect Your Home
Look for structural damage, cracks, or downed power lines.
If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, turn off the gas valve and leave the house immediately.
Only re-enter when authorities say it’s safe.
Expect Aftershocks
They can be as strong as the main quake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On again.
Stay Connected
Use text messages or social media to check in with family, phone lines may be jammed.
Listen to a battery-powered radio for updates from local authorities.
Avoid Hazards
Stay away from damaged buildings, flooded areas, and beaches (tsunamis can follow quakes in coastal areas).
If you’re near the coast and feel a strong quake, move to high ground immediately.
Final Thoughts
Earthquakes are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be.
By preparing your home, practicing safety drills, and knowing how to react, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Share this guide with your community.
Stay safe, stay ready, and subscribe for more practical tips on thriving in an unpredictable world.
ON SURVIVAL is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
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