Understanding Earthquake Safety: A Scientific Approach

At this very moment, an earthquake is occurring somewhere across the globe. The natural movement of subterranean rock can lead to sudden jolts—known as earthquakes—that can strike without warning. While earthquakes remain unpredictable, they are easily monitored afterward. In the United States alone, over 20,000 earthquakes are recorded annually. Most are minor, lasting under a minute, but major, devastating ones (magnitude 8 and above) happen roughly once a year worldwide.

Given the constant seismic activity, it’s likely you’ll experience an earthquake at some point. Certain regions are more prone to tremors—use this interactive map to assess your city’s earthquake risk if you’re in the U.S. However, no location or individual is entirely safe, as emphasized by the federal emergency agency. This makes it crucial to understand the necessary actions before, during, and after an earthquake.

Steps to Prepare for an Earthquake

1. Strengthen Your Home’s Structure

Engage a professional contractor to anchor your house to its foundation, fortify walls, and fix any structural weaknesses. Secure heavy furniture, such as bookshelves and water heaters, to wall studs, and prune overhanging tree branches. Additionally, consider purchasing earthquake insurance if you reside in a region prone to seismic activity.

2. Design Your Home With Earthquake Safety in Mind

Place heavy appliances on lower shelves and ensure they are not blocking doorways. Position artwork and mirrors away from areas where people sit or sleep. Keep beds at a safe distance from windows. Install cabinet latches and store fragile or hazardous items securely inside.

3. Familiarize Yourself With Your Home

Understand how to shut off your water, gas mains, and circuit breaker. Educate your children on the proper use of fire extinguishers.

4. Conduct Regular Earthquake Safety Drills

Develop a preparedness plan for your household. Identify safe spots to take cover indoors and establish a meeting point once the shaking subsides.

5. Prepare an Emergency Disaster Kit

Pack a bag with long-lasting food, water, and essential camping gear like flashlights, a battery-powered radio, goggles, and dust masks. Add personal and medical supplies for yourself, your family, and pets. Don’t forget to include cash and duplicates of critical documents. Consider creating similar kits for your workplace, car, and bedside.

Essential Tips for Earthquake Safety During the Event

6. Follow the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” Protocol

This is the key advice from the CDC for anyone caught in an earthquake.

7. If You Are Indoors

Avoid areas near objects that could topple or shatter, such as furniture, windows, light fixtures, and overhead cabinets. Remain in one room, drop to your hands and knees to maintain balance, and take cover under a sturdy desk or table. If no shelter is available, position yourself against an interior wall. Protect your head and neck using your hands, a book, or a pillow. Stay indoors and hold your position until the shaking stops.

8. If You Are Outdoors

Move away from trees, overpasses, streetlights, bridges, power lines, and buildings. Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head, and remain in place until the shaking subsides.

9. If You Are in a Vehicle

Ensure your seatbelt is fastened and steer clear of outdoor hazards like trees, power lines, and buildings. Once you reach a safe, open area, apply your parking brake and remain inside the vehicle until the shaking ceases.

Steps to Take After an Earthquake

10. Be Ready for Aftershocks

Aftershocks can occur unexpectedly, so remain prepared to drop, cover, and hold on again, even after the initial quake has ended. If you reside near water, the earthquake might have caused dam damage or triggered a tsunami. Stay alert for potential flooding or landslides.

11. Offer Assistance If You Can

Check yourself and others for injuries. Wear sturdy shoes. If someone is injured or trapped, provide first aid to those within reach and then try to contact emergency services. Avoid entering damaged structures or unsafe areas.

12. Assess Your Environment

If indoors, move to an open outdoor area to evaluate the situation and inspect your home for visible damage. Be cautious when opening cabinets or closets, as items may have shifted. Use a fire extinguisher to put out small fires and clean up minor chemical spills. For larger fires or spills, call emergency services. Check utilities, sewer, and water lines, and shut them off if leaks are suspected.

13. Stay Informed With the Latest Updates

Tune into your radio for emergency alerts and current information about the situation. If you’re in a flood-prone area, relocate to higher ground immediately.

14. Understand What to Steer Clear Of

Avoid driving near bridges or overpasses until they’ve been inspected for safety. Also, watch out for damaged gas lines or fallen power lines and keep your distance.

15. Prepare for Potential Future Earthquakes

Once you’re safe, contact a professional inspector to assess your home for structural damage and hire a contractor to carry out necessary repairs. Reinforce your home’s safety measures and restock your emergency kit to ensure you’re ready for any future earthquakes.