FEMA Blog

Posted by: Public Affairs

As the tragic events in Japan have made clear, earthquakes can strike with no notice and cause devastating consequences.  In the U.S., many areas are at risk for an earthquake, which is why preparing is so important.

In addition to creating your family emergency plan and getting a kit, earthquake drills can enforce how to stay safe during and immediately after a quake.  One such drill is the Great Central U.S. Shakeout, a multi-state earthquake drill that focuses on the potentially life-saving actions of “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” during/after an earthquake.

The drill will only be effective if people participate and, so far, over 1 million people have signed up.  That’s great, but if you haven’t signed up for the Shakeout, do so today, and if you have already, take the time to tell a friend to sign up.

While we don’t know where or when the next earthquake will strike, we can all take steps to lessen the effects of a quake.  And wherever you live in the U.S., check out these earthquake preparedness tips from Ready.gov to get started.