Earthquake Preparedness Checklist: Before, During & After

Earthquakes give no warning. Unlike hurricanes — which can be tracked for days — an earthquake's first sign is the shaking itself. That's why preparation has to be done before, not during.

This guide covers three phases: what to have ready in advance, what to do when the ground moves, and how to manage the aftermath.

Before: Build Your Earthquake Go Bag

An earthquake go bag differs slightly from a standard 72-hour kit because of specific earthquake hazards — structural damage, gas leaks, broken glass, aftershocks.

Add these to your standard 72-hour kit:

• Sturdy shoes — stored under the bed. Glass and debris are the leading cause of post-quake injuries.
• Work gloves — for moving debris safely
• Pry bar or crowbar — for opening jammed doors
• Gas shut-off wrench — a flat-sided wrench to close the main gas valve (tape it near the meter)
• Dust masks (N95) — concrete dust is hazardous
• Emergency whistle — if you're trapped, shouting exhausts air and energy
• Glow sticks — safer than open flames in a gas-leak scenario

Secure your home:

• Strap water heaters and large appliances to wall studs
• Install latches on cabinet doors
• Anchor tall furniture (bookshelves, filing cabinets) to walls
• Move heavy items to lower shelves
• Know where your gas, water, and electrical shutoffs are

During: Drop, Cover, Hold On

This is still the correct guidance from USGS and FEMA, despite persistent myths about doorframes and "triangle of life":

1. Drop to hands and knees
2. Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table, or against an interior wall away from windows
3. Hold On until shaking stops

If outdoors: move away from buildings, power lines, and trees. Stay in the open.

If in a vehicle: pull over away from overpasses and power lines. Stay inside.

After: The First 24 Hours

Immediately after shaking stops:

• Check yourself and others for injuries
• Look for fire, gas leaks (smell or hissing), water leaks, and structural damage
• If you smell gas: open windows, leave the building, shut off gas at the meter, call the utility company
• Do not use matches, lighters, or electrical switches if a gas leak is suspected
• Wear shoes — debris is everywhere

Before re-entering your building:

• Check for cracks in the foundation, roof, and chimneys
• Do not enter if you see structural damage — aftershocks can collapse weakened buildings
• If in doubt, wait for a professional assessment

Communication:

• Text rather than call — cell networks get jammed but texts route through
• Use your battery-powered radio for official updates
• Check in with your household's out-of-area contact (a pre-designated person outside the affected region)

The Offline Advantage

After a major earthquake, cell towers are often damaged and internet connectivity is unreliable for hours or days. GoBag+'s offline library — Ready.gov family-preparedness guides, FEMA hazard manuals, CDC first-aid references — is stored locally on your device and works on airplane mode.

Download GoBag+ before the next earthquake →

Sources: USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, FEMA Earthquake Safety, American Red Cross.