Skip to main content

Earthquake Preparation

Preparing for the unexpected starts with knowing what to do before, during and after an earthquake. A simple plan can help you respond faster, protect your household and reduce avoidable damage.

Key Takeaways

  • Learn how to prepare for an earthquake by securing your home, building an emergency kit and making a household plan.
  • See what to do during an earthquake, including FEMA’s Drop, Cover and Hold On guidance.
  • Understand what to do after an earthquake, from checking for injuries and hazards to getting ready for aftershocks.
  • Get a simple overview of whether insurance may cover earthquake damage and where to learn more about earthquake protection.

How to prepare for an earthquake

How to prepare for an earthquake starts with making your home safer and ensuring everyone in your household knows how to respond. To reduce the risk of damage to your home and injury, you should:

  • Create an emergency kit and make a family communication and evacuation plan. Identify safe spots in each room of your home.
  • Make sure shelves are securely fastened to walls, and place large or heavy objects on bottom shelves.
  • Store breakable items in low, closed cabinets that can be latched shut.
  • Make sure overhead light fixtures are securely fastened to ceilings, and heavy items — such as picture frames and mirrors — are secured to walls.
  • Secure your water heater with a wide metal strap and attach it to wall studs.

Quick takeaway: What to do before, during and after an earthquake starts with preparation. A secured home, emergency kit and family plan can make the response phase easier.

Here's a quick overview of what to do in each phase:

Before an earthquakeDuring an earthquakeAfter an earthquake
Secure heavy items, build an emergency kit and make a family safety planDrop, Cover and Hold On until the shaking stopsCheck for injuries, watch for hazards and prepare for aftershocks
Identify safe spots in each roomStay away from windows and falling objectsLeave the building if there’s a clear, safe exit
Review insurance information and important documentsIf you’re outside, move away from buildings and utility wiresDocument damage and contact your insurer if needed

What to do during an earthquake

If an earthquake begins, your first priority is protecting yourself from falling debris and other immediate hazards. What to do during an earthquake: the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends a strategy called Drop, Cover and Hold On.

  • DROP down on your hands and knees at the first sign of an earthquake, so it doesn't knock you down.
  • COVER your head and neck, and try to find shelter under a sturdy table or near an interior wall.
  • HOLD ON to something sturdy until the shaking stops.

If you're outside when an earthquake strikes, stay outside. Try to get to an area away from buildings and utility wires. If you’re driving, pull over in a clear area when it’s safe to do so and stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.

For broader emergency planning, see the Storm Toolkit and the Earthquake resource page.

What to do after an earthquake

Knowing what to do after an earthquake is just as important as knowing how to respond during one. Hazards can remain even after the shaking ends.

  • After the shaking stops, check that everyone is safe. Call 911 if anyone is seriously injured.
  • Leave the building if there’s a clear, safe exit.
  • Be aware of smaller aftershocks following an earthquake — and be prepared to Drop, Cover and Hold On again if you feel one.
  • Check for hazards such as gas leaks, damaged electrical lines, broken glass and unstable structures before reentering or beginning cleanup.
  • If your home was damaged, take photos when it’s safe and review your next steps for filing a claim.

Does insurance cover earthquake damage?

Does insurance cover earthquake damage? A standard homeowners policy typically does not cover earthquake losses. Separate earthquake may be needed depending on where you live and the type of property you have.

Amica offers information about earthquake resources and, for California policyholders, California earthquake coverage.

Get an insurance quote today

or call 800-242-6422

FAQs about earthquake preparation

You can prepare for an earthquake by securing heavy furniture and fixtures, building an emergency kit, identifying safe spots in each room and creating a family communication plan.

During an earthquake, FEMA recommends that you Drop, Cover and Hold On. Protect your head and neck, stay away from falling hazards and remain in place until the shaking stops.

After an earthquake, check for injuries, leave the building if there’s a safe exit, watch for aftershocks and look for hazards like gas leaks or damaged power lines.

Before an earthquake, secure your home and make a plan. During an earthquake, Drop, Cover and Hold On. After an earthquake, check on others, avoid hazards and document property damage if needed.

A standard homeowners policy typically does not cover earthquake damage. Separate earthquake coverage may be available depending on your property and location.

Also of Interest

Your Policy, Policy Declarations or Amended Declarations in effect on the date of loss is the primary source of reference for your coverage, coverage limits and deductible amounts.

This inclusion of non-Amica companies, products, services or statement herein (“Third-Party Content”) is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by Amica Insurance. Policies, views, opinions or positions of Third-Party Content expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the policies, views, opinions or positions of Amica Insurance. Amica Insurance makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy and reliability of Third-Party Content.

This content may contain helpful tips, explanation and advice. Your use of this information is voluntary and may not be effective in every circumstance. Amica encourages you to use good judgment and put safety first.

For more information on our editorial process and content standards, take a look at our editorial guidelines.

AMIC-15-070228

Getting your quote has never been easier.

Let’s see what’s available in your area.

or call 800-242-6422