Complete Earthquake Preparation Guide 2025
Transform your family, home, and workplace from vulnerable to resilient with our comprehensive 12-week preparation plan.
Family PlanningHome SafetyBusiness ReadyExpert Advice
12-Week Earthquake Readiness Timeline
A structured approach to prepare thoroughly
Weeks 1-2: Assessment & Planning
- Understand your earthquake risk level using USGS maps
- Identify safe spots in your home during earthquakes
- Schedule structural assessment from a professional engineer
- Create a family communication plan with out-of-state contact
Weeks 3-4: Supplies & Kits
- Assemble 72-hour emergency kits for each family member
- Store important documents in waterproof containers
- Prepare medications in 2-week supplies
- Set up backup power sources (batteries, solar chargers)
Weeks 5-6: Home Mitigation
- Secure heavy furniture to walls with earthquake straps
- Install flexible gas connections
- Brace tall bookshelves, water heaters, and HVAC systems
- Secure overhead light fixtures and mirrors
Weeks 7-8: Training & Practice
- Conduct monthly "Drop, Cover, Hold On" drills
- Practice shutting off gas and electrical systems
- Train family members on first aid
- Practice evacuation from various locations
Weeks 9-10: Professional Assessment
- Conduct professional home safety audit
- Evaluate structural reinforcement needs
- Plan and budget for necessary retrofits
- Get insurance evaluation
Weeks 11-12: Final Review & Documentation
- Document home inventory with photos for insurance
- Finalize emergency contact information
- Review all family plans quarterly
- Update emergency kits seasonally
Create Your Family Emergency Plan
Step-by-step instructions for family preparedness
Step 1: Communication Strategy
Before an Earthquake
- Establish meeting point outside home
- Choose out-of-state contact person
- Share important documents
- Teach children phone number by heart
- Keep emergency contact info updated
After an Earthquake
- Text out-of-state contact if possible
- Use emergency apps like "Life360"
- Listen to local emergency broadcasts
- Check community emergency shelters
- Register at Red Cross Safe and Well
Step 2: Emergency Meeting Points
Primary Meeting Point (Near Home): Open area away from buildings, power lines, trees
Secondary Meeting Point (School/Work): Specific location each family member can reach
Out-of-Area Contact Person: Someone outside earthquake zone to coordinate communication
Home Mitigation Checklist
Physical steps to make your home earthquake-resistant
Critical Items (Priority 1)
Important Items (Priority 2)
Workplace Earthquake Preparedness
Essential preparation steps for employers and employees
For Employers
- •Conduct quarterly earthquake drills
- •Post evacuation routes and assembly points
- •Secure heavy equipment and filing cabinets
- •Train staff on first aid and CPR
- •Maintain emergency supplies at work
For Employees
- •Learn workplace assembly point locations
- •Identify safe places in your workspace
- •Participate in earthquake drills
- •Keep comfortable shoes at your desk
- •Know how to shut off utilities for your area
Earthquake Preparedness Budget Guide
Estimated costs for various preparedness measures
Low Cost (Under $500)
- • Emergency supply kit: $100-200
- • Furniture straps: $50-100
- • Earthquake apps: Free
- • First aid kit: $30-50
- • Important documents copies: $50
Medium Cost ($500-5,000)
- • Flexible gas connections: $300-500
- • Water heater bracing: $200-400
- • Backup power system: $1,000-3,000
- • Professional home audit: $500-1,500
Higher Investment (Over $5,000)
- • Foundation bolting/bracing: $2,000-5,000
- • Cripple wall bracing: $1,500-4,000
- • Soft story retrofit: $5,000-20,000+
- • Comprehensive structural retrofit: Varies by property