Earthquakes
Earthquakes Quick Tips:
BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE
- Preparing for earthquakes and knowing what to do after one happens can save lives. Stay safe by being earthquake ready.
- Practice DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON at home and work.
- Get life-saving seconds to stay safe before shaking starts by downloading and setting up alerts from California’s Earthquake Early Warning system at earthquake.ca.gov.
- Secure loose and tall furniture to minimize damage or threat of injury.
- Have a Go Bag and shoes in a place that you can find quickly if you have to evacuate.
PROTECT YOURSELF DURING EARTHQUAKES
- If inside, do not rush outside or stand in a doorway. Never use elevators! Remember,
- DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON.
- If in bed, stay there and COVER your head with a pillow.
- If outdoors, move away from anything that can fall, especially power lines, trees, street lights, and buildings.
- If driving, pull over and set the parking brake. Make sure you stop away from trees, bridges, buildings, or power lines.
STAY ALERT AFTER EARTHQUAKES
- Be ready for aftershocks over several days or weeks. Whenever you feel shaking, DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON.
- Listen to local radio and TV programs for reliable emergency information and watch out for official emergency alerts.
- If near the coast, evacuate as soon as the shaking stops. Earthquakes can lead to tsunamis, and you should not return until there is an all clear announcement.
- Check for hazards around you, including gas leaks, downed power lines, ruptured pipes, and more. If you smell gas, evacuate everyone immediately.
- Do not enter damaged buildings! Wait until officials say it is safe, even if that means waiting at a shelter. Call your local or county authorities to find exit routes to the nearest shelter.