Earthquake Preparedness Guide 2026 — Survive the First 72 Hours

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Year-Round Risk

Earthquakes don't give warnings. The only prep window is before one hits. This guide covers home hardening, 72-hour kit essentials, and the exact steps to take in the first 10 minutes after the ground stops shaking.

🚨 Drop, Cover, Hold On — The 3-Second Rule

The most dangerous injury in an earthquake is not the building collapsing — it's being hit by falling objects. The correct action is:

DROP to hands and knees — this prevents being knocked over
COVER your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk, or against an interior wall far from windows
HOLD ON until shaking stops — do not run outside during shaking
If in bed: stay there, cover your head with a pillow
If outdoors: move away from buildings, power lines, and trees
If driving: pull over away from overpasses, signs, and trees — stay in the car

⏱️ The First 10 Minutes After Shaking Stops

Check yourself and others for injuries — treat life-threatening injuries first
Check for gas leaks: smell for gas, listen for hissing. If suspected: open windows, turn off gas at the meter, leave immediately
Check for electrical hazards: sparks, frayed wires, overheating. Turn off power at the breaker if safe to do so
Check for structural damage: cracks in walls or foundation, doors that won't open, sagging ceilings
Do NOT use elevators — use stairs
Do NOT use open flames (gas leaks may be present)
Tune to your NOAA radio or emergency alerts for official information
Expect aftershocks — they can be nearly as strong as the main quake

🔩 Earthquake-Proof Your Home

Most earthquake injuries at home are caused by falling furniture and objects, not structural collapse. Fix this in an afternoon.

Anchor bookcases, dressers, and water heaters to wall studs
Move heavy items to lower shelves — the heavier, the lower
Install cabinet latches to prevent contents from flying open
Secure your water heater with seismic straps — water heaters are the #1 gas fire source after quakes
Know how to shut off your gas at the meter (keep a wrench nearby)
Keep shoes near your bed — glass on floors is a major post-quake hazard
Identify the safest spots in each room now, before you need them