Earthquakes are destructive and unpredictable. The big one could happen at any time, so it is important for Californians to be prepared. These outreach materials provide steps you can take to stay safe in the event of an Earthquake.
Earthquake preparedness is essential in California. Earthquakes are an inevitable part of California's future and could strike anywhere at any time. Quick action ensures that disasters do not become catastrophes.
Tips to Prepare
BEFORE THE EARTHQUAKE:
- Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold drill.
- Gather critical documents.
- Discuss how to prepare with your family, friends, and neighbors.
- Gather and store basic supplies.
DURING THE EARTHQUAKE:
- If indoors: drop, cover, and hold on. Do not run outside!
- If outdoors: move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
- In a high-rise building: stay away from windows or walls, and elevators
- If driving: stop, stay in vehicle, and avoid stopping near buildings, trees, overpasses, or utility wires.
AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE:
- Check for injuries, provide assistance if you have training.
- Have utilities inspected by qualified professionals.
- Stay away from damaged areas.
IF YOU DO EVACUATE:
- List 3 places where family members should go if they cannot stay or return home.
- Be in communication. Use phone for emergencies and out-of-area contact to inform of status.
- Take necessary supplies with you.
- Post a message inside your home indicating where you can be found.
ShakeAlert System
California's earthquake early warning alerts are now publicly available. Warnings produced by the ShakeAlert system will be pushed through two delivery systems: a cellphone app called MyShake (available in iTunes and GooglePlay) and the same wireless notification system that issues Amber Alerts. People may receive both notifications.
The Great Shakeout
The Great California Shakeout takes place on the third Thursday of October every year. It is an annual opportunity to practice how to be safer during big earthquakes. The Earthquake Country Alliance has organized the ShakeOut as an effort to encourage constituents to review and update emergency preparedness plans and supplies, as well as to help plan ahead to prevent damages and injuries.
The ShakeOut drill will be the largest preparedness event in world history. To participate, visit shakeout.org/register/index and pledge your family, school, business, or organization's participation in the drill. Registered participants will receive information on how to plan their drill and create a dialogue about earthquake safety.
Helpful Resources
If you need assistance and more information, please do not hesitate to call my office. You can also download a free Earthquake Preparedness brochure to print:
BROCHURE DOWNLOAD
| Earthquake Preparedness Brochure |
Know what to do before, during, and after a quake, visit www.caloes.ca.gov or call (916) 657-9369. For important earthquake insurance information visit www.earthquakeauthority.com or call (877) 797-4300.