Prepare for an Earthquake
The 1994 Northridge earthquake caused $20 billion in damage across the Los Angeles area and killed 57 people. USGS scientists estimate there is a 99.7% probability of a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake striking California within the next 30 years. The Pacific Northwest faces a major subduction zone threat from the Cascadia fault.
Unlike hurricanes, earthquakes give zero warning. Drop, Cover, and Hold On is only the first step. After the shaking stops, you may face days without water, power, or passable roads. FEMA recommends every household in seismic zones keep a 72-hour supply kit.
Drop, Cover, Hold On — and what comes next
During the shaking: The USGS protocol is unambiguous — drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under a sturdy table (or with your arms if no shelter is nearby), and hold on until shaking stops. Do NOT run outside during shaking; falling debris and broken glass cause most earthquake injuries. Do NOT stand in a doorway (this old advice no longer applies to modern construction). If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow.
Immediately after: Expect aftershocks, often within minutes of the main quake and continuing for days. Check yourself and family for injuries before moving. Look for gas leaks (smell, hissing sounds) and shut off the gas at the meter only if you smell gas — turning it back on requires a utility technician, which may take weeks. Check water lines and turn off the main if pipes are damaged. Avoid downed power lines and assume every line is live.
The first 72 hours: Cell towers and roads will be unreliable. FEMA estimates rescue may take 72 hours to reach you in a major urban quake. Use a battery-powered radio for emergency broadcasts. Avoid driving except for emergencies — overpasses and bridges may be unsafe. If you live in a multi-story building, check stairwell integrity before evacuating. Read our earthquake home preparation guide for structural retrofitting tips that reduce injury risk.
Earthquake kit essentials
- Water: 1 gallon per person per day for 7 days minimum. Many earthquake zones (Bay Area, Pacific Northwest) face weeks-long water system disruption after major quakes.
- Sturdy shoes by the bed: Most post-earthquake foot injuries come from walking on broken glass. Keep heavy-soled shoes and a flashlight within reach of every bed.
- Wrench or gas-shutoff tool: Stored next to your gas meter, ready to use. Practice locating and using it before an emergency.
- First aid kit with trauma supplies: Tourniquet, Israeli bandages, splints. Hospitals will be overwhelmed for days after a major quake.
- Cash: $500-1000 in small bills. ATMs and card readers fail when power and networks go down.
- Family meeting plan: A designated out-of-state contact who all family members call to relay status. Local calls fail; long-distance often works first.
- Secure your home: Bolt bookshelves and water heaters to studs, use museum putty for breakables, install latches on cabinets. Read our home preparation guide for FEMA-recommended retrofits.