What is an earthquake?
Earthquakes are caused by the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth’s surface They can strike suddenly, without warning, and occur at any time of the year and day or night. In the U.S., 45 states and territories are at a moderate to very high risk of earthquakes. Fortunately, families can take simple steps to be better prepared and keep children safe when earthquakes strike.
Earthquake safety tips Before, During, and After
Prepare
Talk about earthquakes. Spend time with your family discussing earthquakes. Explain that an earthquake is a natural event and not anyone’s fault. Use simple words that even young children can understand.
Find safe spots in your home. Identify and discuss safe spots in each room of your home so that you can go there immediately if you feel an earthquake. Safe spots are places where you can take cover, such as under a sturdy desk or table, or next to an interior wall.
Practice earthquake drills. Regularly practice with your family what you would do if an earthquake occurred. Practicing earthquake drills will help children understand what to do if you are not with them during an earthquake.
Learn about your caregivers’ disaster plans. If your children’s school or childcare center is in an area at risk of earthquakes, find out how its emergency plan addresses earthquakes. Ask about evacuation plans and if you would need to pick up your children from the site or another location.
Keep contact information current. Phone numbers, addresses, and relationships change. Keep your children’s school or childcare emergency release information up to date. This is so that if an earthquake strikes, you will know where your child is and who can pick them up.
What to do in an earthquake at home?
During an Earthquake
If inside, Drop, Cover, and Hold On.—Drop to the ground and Cover under something sturdy like a desk or table. You should hold on to the object with one hand while protecting your head and neck with the other arm. If you don’t have anything sturdy to take cover under, crouch down next to an interior wall. Stay indoors until the shaking stops and you’re sure it’s safe to e
If outside, find an open spot. Find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop to the ground and stay there until the shaking stops
If in a vehicle, stop. Pull over to a clear location, stop, and stay there with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
What to do after an earthquake?
Following an Earthquake
Involve children in recovery. After an earthquake, include your children in clean-up activities if it is safe to do so. It is comforting for children to watch the household return to normal and have a job to do.
Listen to children. Encourage your child to express fear, anxiety, or anger. Listen carefully, show understanding, and offer reassurance. Tell your child that the situation is not permanent, and provide physical reassurance through time spent together and displays of affection. Contact local faith-based organizations, voluntary organizations, or professionals for counseling if extra help is needed.