Why Earthquake Preparedness Matters
Earthquakes strike fast and without warning. (Duh, right?) The difference between chaos and control often comes down to how well you’ve prepared. Whether you live near a fault line or not, having a solid earthquake plan and survival gear on hand is crucial.
At Survive & Thrive Michigan™, our mission is to help families take control of the unexpected. Here's your practical guide to earthquake preparedness. What should be done before the shaking starts to what happens after it's over.
Before an Earthquake: Prepare Now to Act Later
Understand Your Risk
Start by checking if you live in an earthquake-prone area. Even if you’re not near the West Coast, fault lines run throughout the country. Visit the USGS Earthquake Map to assess your region’s risk.
Even those of us who live in the Midwest should take note. Now, if you're not in a fault area, and you're not planning to relocate to where the shaking is, you can probably sit the rest of this out, unless you want to send this to someone who could benefit.
For those who live in quake central
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Designate a meeting location outside your home
Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills
Identify safe shelter spots inside your house
Learn how to turn off gas, water, and electricity (honestly, for the sake of all, this is something we should all know, regardless of earthquake status).
Pack a Survival Kit
Your earthquake survival bag should include enough supplies to survive 72 hours with little to no outside help. Also, make sure that EVERYONE in the house has a bag like this, and can easily get to it.
If you want a bag to start you off in the right direction for this, ours is perfect for your needs ===>THE Bag
Make sure and store this bag, (and anyone else's in the home too), in a safe space.
During the Earthquake: Protect Yourself
If You’re Indoors, if you have the time, get to your safe space.
Take cover under a sturdy table or desk by dropping to your hands and knees under them.
Hold on and protect your head and neck.
Stay away from windows, mirrors, and tall furniture.
If You’re Outdoors
Move to a clear area away from buildings, trees, power lines, and streetlights.
Drop to the ground and stay put until the shaking stops
If You’re in a Vehicle
Pull over to a safe area away from overpasses and bridges
Stay in your vehicle.
Hopefully you have a Get Home bag inside your vehicle, if not, you can get one here that really starts you off great.
After the Earthquake: Stay Alert
Aftershocks are common and can be just as dangerous as the initial quake. Take action with caution.
Check for Injuries and Hazards.
Treat injuries using your first aid kit.
Check for gas leaks, fires, and structural damage
Use your emergency radio to stay updated on local alerts
Be Ready to Evacuate
If your home is unsafe, grab your go-bag and leave immediately. Use your shelter gear and water purification tools to stay safe wherever you land.
Earthquake Safety is Survival Strategy
Preparedness isn’t about fear, it’s about resilience. When the ground starts shaking, your survival depends on the choices you made long before disaster hit. With the right gear and the right plan, you can keep you and your family safe, calm, and ready to thrive.
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