Why Earthquake Preparedness Matters in Los Angeles
If you live in Los Angeles, earthquakes come with the territory. Maybe you’ve felt a mild tremor that rattled your windows or a jolt that stopped you mid-step. Either way, the ground here doesn’t always stay still.
That’s because LA sits near the San Andreas Fault—one of the most active in the country. While most earthquakes are minor, experts have long warned about the possibility of a major one. When is more important than if.
Staying prepared isn’t alarmist—it’s practical. LA officials have updated building codes and developed early warning systems, but personal preparedness still plays a critical role.
What to Do During an Earthquake in Los Angeles
Earthquakes hit without notice, so your reaction in those first moments matters. Whether you’re indoors, outdoors, or behind the wheel, knowing what to do can prevent injuries.
If You’re Indoors
on keep yourself from falling, drop on your hands and knees.
If you’re indoors, get low and shield your head and neck by crawling under something solid, like a heavy table.
Hold On until the shaking stops.
Stay inside. Running out during a quake increases the chance of being hit by glass, debris, or falling objects. f you’re already in bed, stay there and use a pillow to protect your head.
Remember: Many injuries during the 1994 Northridge quake occurred as people tried to run while everything was still shaking. Staying still is usually the safer choice.
If You’re Outdoors
Move away from buildings, trees, light poles, and utility wires.
Find an open area like a park, parking lot, or wide street.
Crouch low and protect your head with your arms.
Avoid standing under signs, balconies, or anything that could fall. The fewer things around you, the better.
If You’re in a Car
Pull over to a safe spot—away from bridges, overpasses, or tall structures.
Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened.
Wait until the shaking stops before driving again.
After a strong quake, traffic signals may be out, and road conditions can change quickly. Listen for local updates before moving on.
Earthquake Safety Tips for LA Residents
Being ready before an earthquake hits makes all the difference. Here are a few smart ways to prepare.
Build an Emergency Kit
Keep a kit in your home, car, or office with enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. Include:
- Water (1 gallon per person, per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle
- Portable phone charger or solar power bank
- Prescription meds
- Copies of ID, insurance, and cash
You can buy pre-made kits, but tailoring one to your family’s needs is more effective.
Make a Family Safety Plan
If cell networks go down or power cuts out, you need a plan.
- Choose a meeting spot near home and a backup farther away.
- Designate an out-of-state contact everyone can reach.
- Practice how to text or use offline apps if voice calls don’t work.
A quick seasonal drill can keep your family confident if a real quake hits.
Know Your Building
Some buildings are more quake-resistant than others.
- If you rent, ask your landlord about seismic retrofitting.
- Learn how to shut off the gas, water, and power if necessary.
- Anchor tall shelves and keep heavy objects off high surfaces.
Programs like Earthquake Brace + Bolt help homeowners pay for retrofitting older structures. It’s worth looking into.
After the Shaking Stops: What to Do Next
The shaking might stop, but danger can still follow. Aftershocks, gas leaks, and falling debris are all real risks.
- Check for injuries and use your first aid kit.
- Have you noticed an odd hissing sound or a gas smell? Leave immediately and call your gas supplier from a safe distance.
- Inspect your home for cracks, leaning walls, or other signs of damage.
- Stay updated through a battery-powered radio or phone apps.
Apps like MyShake and QuakeFeed provide local alerts and updates. Texting is often more reliable than calling when networks are congested.
Apps & Resources Every LA Resident Should Have
These tools can help before, during, and after an earthquake:
- MyShake – Sends early warnings and local seismic info.
- ShakeAlertLA – Tailored for LA residents with localized alerts.
- USGS Earthquake Map – Track quake activity in real time.
- FEMA App – Find shelters, get safety tips, and receive official alerts.
All are free and take just a few minutes to install.
Final Thoughts: Staying Calm, Staying Safe
Earthquakes are part of life in Los Angeles. They don’t need to surprise you, though. Knowing what to do, building a kit, and keeping your home ready can protect you and your loved ones when it counts.
You can’t control when the ground moves—but you can control how you respond. In LA, that kind of readiness isn’t overkill. It’s just smart living.
Frequently Asked Questions
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1. What should I do during an earthquake in Los Angeles?
If you’re indoors, drop to your hands and knees, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay inside—running out increases the risk of injury from falling debris. If you're in bed, stay put and use a pillow to protect your head.
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2. What should I keep in an earthquake emergency kit?
Pack water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, important documents, cash, prescription medications, and a phone charger. Plan for at least 72 hours of self-sufficiency.
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3. Are earthquakes common in Los Angeles?
Yes. Los Angeles sits near the San Andreas Fault, making it prone to frequent minor quakes and at risk for a major one. Preparation is key.
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4. What apps can help with earthquake alerts in LA?
Useful apps include MyShake, ShakeAlertLA, QuakeFeed, and the FEMA app. They offer real-time alerts, local updates, and emergency resources.
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5. How can I earthquake-proof my home in Los Angeles?
Anchor heavy furniture, secure shelves and cabinets, and store breakables low. Homeowners should consider seismic retrofitting through programs like Earthquake Brace + Bolt.
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