Natural Disasters

Natural disaster preparedness resources with links to official U.S. and Canadian government guidance, supporting responsible household planning.

 

🌎 Earthquake Preparedness: No Warning, Just Shaking

💡 Fast Facts That Could Save Your Life

  • Earthquakes strike without warning and may last from a few seconds to several minutes
  • Falling objects, collapsing structures, and broken gas lines are the top causes of injury and death
  • The first quake may not be the worst—aftershocks can cause even more damage
  • Many people are injured by running during the shaking—don’t run, drop and cover

⚠️ What Makes Earthquakes So Dangerous?

  • Instant Onset: No warning system can detect quakes before they start
  • Falling Debris: Roof tiles, windows, ceiling fixtures, and furniture often cause injuries
  • Structural Collapse: Buildings, bridges, and roads can fail—especially older or unreinforced ones
  • Fires and Gas Leaks: Broken gas lines are a major post-quake fire hazard
  • Aftershocks: Can strike minutes to days later and may be stronger than the first quake

📍 High-Risk Areas

  • U.S. West Coast: California, Washington, Oregon, Alaska
  • Western Canada: British Columbia, especially Vancouver Island
  • Also at risk: Tennessee, South Carolina, New Madrid Fault (Central U.S.), and parts of Quebec
  • Earthquakes can happen anywhere, especially near fault zones or unstable bedrock

🧍‍♂️ What to Do During an Earthquake

✅ Indoors:

  • DROP to the ground
  • COVER your head and neck under a table or sturdy furniture
  • HOLD ON until the shaking stops
  • Stay away from windows, hanging items, and tall furniture
  • Do not run outside—you’re more likely to be injured by falling debris

✅ Outdoors:

  • Move to a clear area away from buildings, power lines, and trees
  • Drop low and protect your head

✅ In a Vehicle:

  • Pull over safely
  • Stay inside the car
  • Avoid bridges, tunnels, and overpasses

🎒 Earthquake Emergency Kit

  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Shoes and gloves (to move through debris)
  • Water and food for 3–7 days
  • Emergency whistle
  • Multi-tool or crowbar
  • Cash (ATMs may be offline)
  • Dust mask (for post-quake air quality)
  • Copies of ID and insurance
  • First aid kit
  • Power bank and charger

🏚️ After the Shaking Stops

  • Check for injuries
  • Shut off gas if you smell a leak
  • Expect aftershocks—get to a safer area if structure is damaged
  • Avoid elevators
  • Tune in to emergency radio for updates
  • Only text or use data unless it’s a life-threatening emergency—networks get overloaded

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Earthquake Prep Tips

  • Bolt heavy furniture to the wall
  • Store emergency supplies in multiple rooms in case of blocked exits
  • Keep emergency shoes and flashlight next to beds
  • Practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On” drills
  • Teach kids what to do if they’re alone or at school

✅ Verified Earthquake Resources