Purpose

This page provides general earthquake preparedness awareness to reduce injury and loss of life during and immediately after an earthquake.

Scope and Limits

This information supports risk recognition and personal safety decisions only.

It does not provide rescue guidance, medical care, gas shut-off procedures, electrical work, structural repair, or engineering advice.

Authority Override

Official instructions from local, provincial, federal, or emergency authorities override this page at all times.

If authorities issue evacuation orders, exclusion zones, or re-entry restrictions, follow them immediately.

FAST FACTS THAT AFFECT LIFE SAFETY

• Earthquakes strike without warning — there is no advance alert before shaking begins

• Most earthquake injuries occur from falling objects, flying debris, or movement during shaking, not building collapse

• Many injuries occur when people run, attempt to exit buildings, or use stairs during shaking

• Aftershocks are common and can be strong enough to collapse already-damaged structures

• Earthquakes can trigger fires, gas leaks, landslides, liquefaction, and tsunamis in coastal regions

(Sources: Natural Resources Canada; Ready.gov; USGS)

WHY EARTHQUAKES ARE SO DANGEROUS

Instant onset

There is no warning period — reaction must be immediate.

Falling and flying debris

Ceiling fixtures, cabinets, televisions, shelving, and glass cause most injuries.

Structural damage

Older or unreinforced buildings may partially or fully collapse.

Fire risk

Broken gas lines and electrical damage are a leading cause of post-earthquake fires.

Aftershocks

Secondary quakes may continue for hours or days and can be deadly.

Secondary hazards

Coastal earthquakes may trigger tsunamis. Ground failure can cause landslides and sinkholes.

AREAS WITH ELEVATED RISK

• British Columbia, especially Vancouver Island and the southwest coast

• U.S. West Coast: California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska

• Central U.S. (New Madrid Seismic Zone)

• Parts of eastern Canada and northeastern U.S.

Earthquakes can occur outside mapped zones. Risk exists anywhere.

WHAT NOT TO DO

This section is the priority.

Do not run during shaking

• Running causes falls and increases impact injuries.

Do not go outside during shaking

• Building exteriors are one of the most dangerous locations due to falling debris.

Do not stand in doorways

• Doorways are not safer in modern construction.

Do not use elevators

• Power loss and structural damage can trap occupants.

Do not light flames or use ignition sources

• Gas leaks may be present even if you cannot smell them.

Do not assume the shaking is over

• Aftershocks can occur at any time.

Do not re-enter damaged buildings

• Wait for official clearance before returning.

DURING AN EARTHQUAKE — GOVERNMENT-RECOMMENDED RESPONSE

Government agencies in Canada and the U.S. consistently recommend:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On

• Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over

• Cover your head and neck under sturdy furniture if available

• Hold on until shaking stops

If no shelter is available:

• Protect your head and neck with your arms

• Stay away from windows and tall objects

This guidance applies indoors and in many outdoor situations.

This page does not provide building-specific safety instructions.

AFTER SHAKING STOPS — CRITICAL CAUTIONS

• Expect aftershocks and be prepared to protect yourself again

• Move away from damaged buildings and unstable structures

• Avoid downed power lines and debris

• Avoid open flames until authorities confirm it is safe

• Use text or data messaging to reduce network overload

Follow all official evacuation, exclusion, and re-entry instructions.

COASTAL AND TSUNAMI NOTE (CRITICAL LIFE-SAFETY)

If you are near the coast and experience strong or long-lasting shaking:

• Move inland and to higher ground immediately

• Do not wait for a tsunami warning

Strong shaking near the coast is a natural tsunami warning.

(Sources: Natural Resources Canada; NOAA)

FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD SAFETY PLANNING

• Identify safe locations in every room

• Keep shoes and lighting accessible near beds

• Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On drills

• Ensure children know what to do if adults are not present

• Plan how to communicate if separated

GOVERNMENT EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS RESOURCES

Canada

Natural Resources Canada — Earthquakes

https://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/

Public Safety Canada — Get Prepared

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/emergencies/preparedness/get-prepared.html

Alert Ready — National emergency alerts

https://www.alertready.ca/

United States

Ready.gov — Earthquakes

https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes

U.S. Geological Survey — Earthquake hazards

https://www.usgs.gov/programs/earthquake-hazards

Last Reviewed

February 2026

Sources checked:

Natural Resources Canada, Public Safety Canada, Ready.gov, U.S. Geological Survey, NOAA.