Will everyone in your household do the right thing during the violent shaking of a major earthquake? Before the next earthquake, get together with your family or housemates to plan now what each person will do before, during and after.
Once the earthquake is over, we will have to live with the risk of fire, the potential lack of utilities and basic services, and the certainty of aftershocks. By planning now, you will be ready. This plan will also be useful for other emergencies.
Does your community:
Find out if your home or business is at risk for earthquakes, tsunamis, and related hazards. Earthquakes can occur everywhere in California which means all Californians live with an earthquake risk. In addition to the shaking caused by earthquakes, other things can occur such as landslides, surface fault ruptures and liquefaction - all of which may cause injury or property damage. In addition, some areas within California are vulnerable to tsunamis should an earthquake occur off the coast. Use signs and maps to find out which areas are hazardous. On the open coast areas 100 feet or more in elevation and low areas more than two miles inland are safe.
Visit myhazards.calema.ca.gov/ to create a map of the hazards you may face in your community, and contact your local city or county government for further details on how to be prepared where you live. Then quickly create a plan to reduce your risks.
The Great California ShakeOut each October is an opportunity to practice your plan. Be sure to share your plan with people who take care of your children, pets, or home.