Earthquake Preparedness - National Safety Council

While California has seen the most serious earthquakes in the continental U.S., tremors occur all over the country. In fact, there is a significant risk of a major quake along the New Madrid Fault in the central U.S. within the next few decades, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Earthquakes are difficult to predict, but there are ways to secure your belongings and protect your family.

Secure large appliances and install flexible gas and water connections
Anchor top-heavy furniture to the wall and place heavy objects on lower shelves
Never hang anything heavy above where you sleep
If you're outside when an earthquake occurs, move away from buildings, street lights, utility wires and overpasses
If you are inside, get under a sturdy table or desk and hold onto it; if that's not possible, crouch in a strongly supported doorway or inside corner and protect your head
Stay clear of windows

Additional Sources

American Red Cross
Ready.gov
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

If the Ground Starts to Shake, Will You Be Ready?

Additional Sources

Emergency Preparedness

Flood