Natural Disasters

  1. Earthquake
  2. Flood
  3. Fire
  4. Wildfire Reduction Efforts

Earthquakes

Did you know? In modern homes, taking cover in a doorway is not the recommended response to an earthquake. To find out what the recommended response is, keep reading.


How to Stay Safe

When you feel shaking, curl up under a sturdy piece of furniture, with your face down and your back to the ceiling. Cover up the back of your neck with one hand, and hold on to the piece of furniture with the other hand until the shaking has stopped. If you can’t get under sturdy furniture, curl up next to an inside wall, away from objects that could fall. If you use a wheelchair or walker, remain seated, lock your device, bend over and cover the back of your neck with one hand, while holding onto your device with your other hand.


What if I am not in a home or classroom? Link to how to stay safe in other environments.

Image showing what to do during an earthquake: When you feel shaking, curl up under a sturdy piece o

Securing your home

Check out these tips from the American Red Cross for ensuring your house does not become a danger during an earthquake:

  • Bolt and brace water heaters and gas appliances to wall studs. Have a professional install flexible fittings to avoid gas or water leaks.
  • Do not hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, near beds, couches and anywhere people sleep or sit.
  • Install strong latches or bolts on cabinets. Large or heavy items should be closest to the floor.
  • Learn how to shut off the gas valves in your home and keep a wrench handy for that purpose.
  • Place large and heavy objects and breakable items (bottled foods, glass or china) on lower shelves.
  • Anchor overhead lighting fixtures to joists.
  • Anchor top-heavy, tall and freestanding furniture such as bookcases, china cabinets to wall studs to keep these from toppling over.
  • Ask about home repair and strengthening tips for exterior features, such as porches, decks, sliding glass doors, canopies, carports and garage doors.
  • Have a professional make sure your home is securely anchored to its foundation, as well as strengthening tips for exterior features, such as porches, decks, sliding glass doors, canopies, carports and garage doors.

My Shake App

are you PREPARED