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
