Earthquakes

Updated 8/4/25

Earthquakes represent the greatest natural disaster threat to Southern California residents, but also can occur all over. Follow these safety tips to help you stay prepared before, during, and after an earthquake.

Before it strikes

  • Have a plan: Create a disaster preparedness plan. Identify safe spots in your office and home ahead of time.
  • Practice: Perform drop, cover and hold on drills: drop down to the floor, crawl under a sturdy desk or table, and cover your head and neck. Hold on and be prepared to move with the table or desk.
  • Make a kit: Gather nonperishable foods, bottled water (at least three gallons per person), first aid supplies, portable phone chargers (self-charging), and other essentials you’ll need for at least 72 hours.
  • Get a fire extinguisher: Earthquakes can damage wires and start fires. Make sure you have an extinguisher handy and know how to use it.
  • Fuel up: Keep your gas tank close to full.

During an earthquake

  • Drop, Cover, and Hold: Avoid moving too much; if the quake is severe, it will knock you to the ground.
  • Avoid windows: Glass can shatter and cause harm.
  • Stay where you are: If you’re in bed, stay there, but cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you’re inside, don’t run outside –parts of the building’s exterior could fall from overhead.
  • Don’t run: You can trip or fall and injure yourself and others.
  • Slow down if driving: Pull to the side of the road until the shaking stops. Don’t park under trees, overhead power lines, or freeway overpasses.

After an earthquake

  • Wait out the aftershocks: Quakes of smaller magnitude usually follow the most severe shocks of an earthquake. Be alert following the initial earthquake.
  • Get out: If you’re in a damaged building, get outside and move far away to avoid falling debris.
  • Don’t take the elevator: Take the stairs when it is safe to move.
  • Monitor the news: The government will likely alert the public with emergency instructions via TV, social media, and radio.
  • Avoid making phone calls: Have an out-of-state contact. Many calls are blocked during emergencies due to volume. It is best not to call unless it’s an emergency, so text or instant message instead.

Additional Resources