10-second answer: Earthquake prep is three weekends: (1) bolt furniture and strap the water heater, (2) build a 72-hour go-bag by the exit, (3) run Drop-Cover-Hold with your household. Standard securing + kit: ~$320. Budget DIY: ~$120.
Earthquakes don’t send calendar invites. When the ground moves, your bookshelf becomes a projectile, gas lines rupture, and cell towers overload in minutes. This checklist splits prep into structural, supplies, and communication — the same calm, step-by-step tone as our power outage guides.
Need the printable checklist? Open 30-Second Kit Overview in the sidebar — copy or share it to your phone notes.
Phase 1 — Secure Your Home (This Weekend)
- Anchor bookcases and dressers to studs with furniture straps
- Install latches on kitchen cabinets — flying dishes injure more than collapsed walls in US quakes
- Strap water heater to prevent gas line tears
- Move heavy objects to lower shelves; museum putty on fragile decor
Phase 2 — Go-Bag by the Exit
Mirror the 72-hour kit categories but optimize for mobility: headlamp over lantern, trauma gauze, work gloves, dust masks, and a pry bar. Store near the door you use daily — not a garage that may pancake.
Phase 3 — Family Communication Plan
- Out-of-state contact everyone memorizes
- Meet point 1: mailbox. Meet point 2: neighborhood park
- Practice Drop-Cover-Hold quarterly — beds are dangerous; get beside them, not under
After the Shake — First 10 Minutes
- Check yourself and household for injuries
- Sniff for gas — shut off only if you smell it or hear hissing
- Grab go-bag; expect aftershocks
- Text out-of-state contact with location — save voice network capacity
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