How do you get prepared for an earthquake? Earthquakes can strike at any time, without warning. Being prepared for an earthquake can help minimize the damage and keep you and your loved ones safe. I have been in a couple of minor earthquakes, nothing very scary. Earthquakes seem so rare and random for most of us it is difficult to even think about preparing. Like so many other natural disasters, however, some of the things we can do to be generally prepared cross over.

1. Know the risks: The first step in preparing for an earthquake is to understand the risks. Find out if you live in an earthquake-prone area and learn about the warning signs. Keep up to date with the latest information by monitoring local earthquake activity and following the advice of your local emergency services.
2. Prepare your home: Prepare your home for an earthquake by securing heavy furniture to the walls, installing latches on cabinets, and securing large appliances. This is smart stuff even if you don’t live in an area with earthquakes. Things other than earthquakes can knock stuff over. Identify safe places to take cover during an earthquake, such as under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Make sure your home is up to code, with reinforced foundations, walls, and chimneys.
3. Stock up on supplies: It’s important to stock up on essential supplies before an earthquake. This includes non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, and a battery-operated or hand-cranked radio. You should also have a fully stocked emergency kit ready to go. This is all a good idea even if you are not in an earthquake prone area.
4. Have an evacuation plan: In some cases, it may be necessary to evacuate your home after an earthquake. Have a plan in place for where you will go, how you will get there, and what you will bring with you. If you have pets, make sure you have a plan for them as well.
5. Protect important documents: Protect important documents by keeping them in a waterproof and fireproof container. This includes insurance policies, passports, birth certificates, and other important documents. Make copies of these documents and keep them in a separate location. Digital copies are a good idea, just make sure they are secure.
6. Practice earthquake drills: Practice earthquake drills with your family and coworkers. Identify safe locations and practice taking cover and holding on to something sturdy. Why practice? The first earthquake we were in in California I knew someone who felt it and jumped under the kitchen table but left a kid in a highchair! The initial panic just created a response that is beyond what you would think is possible. Of course you’ll grab a child first, right?! Hopefully, but maybe not if you are just reacting.
7. Stay informed: During an earthquake, it’s important to stay informed. Keep up to date with the latest information by monitoring local earthquake activity and following the advice of your local emergency services.

Preparing for an earthquake requires planning, preparation, and awareness. By understanding the risks, preparing your home, stocking up on supplies, having an evacuation plan, protecting important documents, practicing earthquake drills, and staying informed, you can minimize the impact of an earthquake and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to natural disasters.