This updated guide explains how earthquakes cause damage, which home features present the highest risk, and how to improve structural and household safety. It covers modern measures - securing furniture, seismic retrofits, and knowing how to respond during shaking (Drop, Cover, and Hold On). It describes early warning systems (e.g., ShakeAlert), actions for people driving or at the coast, aftershock precautions, and essentials for a 72-hour emergency kit.

Why earthquakes matter

Earthquakes are sudden ground movements caused mostly by tectonic plate shifts. They can damage buildings, infrastructure, and utilities and cause injuries or loss of life. Preparing your home and practicing simple personal actions reduce risk and speed recovery.

Make your home safer

Unreinforced masonry, heavy roof tiles, and poorly connected walls and foundations are common causes of collapse. Modern seismic-resistant design uses lightweight, flexible framing, reinforced connections, shear walls, and - where appropriate - base isolation or seismic retrofits to reduce risk.

If you live in an earthquake-prone area:

  • Secure tall furniture, bookcases, and appliances to wall studs. Anchor water heaters and gas appliances.
  • Replace heavy, unsecured shelving or wall-hung items with safer alternatives, and install strong latches on cabinets.
  • Check that your home is bolted to its foundation; consider professional seismic retrofitting for older houses.
  • Keep a wrench and know how to safely shut off gas only if trained to do so.
Building codes in many regions now require seismic design; consult a licensed structural engineer or local building department for specific upgrades.

Early warning systems

Earthquake early warning (EEW) systems can provide seconds to tens of seconds of advance notice in some regions. These systems are operating in countries such as Japan and Mexico and in parts of the United States (for example, the ShakeAlert system). Alerts can help people take cover and automated systems pause critical operations, but they do not prevent shaking. If you receive an EEW alert, use the time to Drop, Cover, and Hold On.

What to do during shaking

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold On: drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops.
  • Stay away from windows, exterior walls, and heavy overhead fixtures.
  • If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and bridges.
  • If driving, pull over to a safe location, stop, set the parking brake, and stay in the vehicle until shaking ends; avoid stopping on bridges or in tunnels.
  • If at the coast and you experience strong or long shaking, move inland and to higher ground - tsunamis can follow some earthquakes.

After the quake

Expect aftershocks. Check for injuries and hazards: gas leaks, electrical damage, fires, and spilled chemicals. Use text messages or social media to report status - phone lines may be overloaded. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Listen to local authorities via battery-powered radio or official apps.

Emergency kit and planning

Prepare a kit with at least 72 hours of water (1 gallon per person per day), nonperishable food, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid supplies, essential medications, warm clothing, and copies of important documents. Create a family communication and meeting plan and practice it regularly.

Small, practical steps - securing furniture, learning Drop, Cover, and Hold On, assembling an emergency kit, and considering professional retrofits - substantially improve safety and resilience when earthquakes occur.

FAQs about Earthquake Safety

What is the single best action during an earthquake?
Drop, Cover, and Hold On: drop to the ground, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. This protects you from falling debris and moving objects.
Do I need to retrofit my older house?
If your home has unreinforced masonry, is not bolted to its foundation, or lacks proper connections, a professional assessment is recommended. Retrofitting can significantly reduce collapse risk.
How much emergency water and food should I store?
Plan for at least 72 hours of supplies. FEMA recommends about 1 gallon of water per person per day plus nonperishable food for each household member.
Will an earthquake early warning system stop the shaking?
No. Early warning systems can give seconds to tens of seconds of advance notice in some regions, enough to take cover or trigger automated shutdowns, but they cannot prevent the shaking.
What should I do if I am driving when the earthquake starts?
Pull over to a safe location, stop, set the parking brake, and stay in the vehicle until shaking ends. Avoid stopping on bridges, overpasses, and in tunnels.