Earthquake preparedness: What you need to do before the ground shakes

Published on December 01, 2025

The recent earthquakes in the Bay Area are a strong reminder that a major quake remains a risk to our community. Although we can’t predict when or where the next earthquake will strike, we can take meaningful steps to reduce its impact on our families, homes and workplaces. Now is the time to take simple, practical actions to prepare yourself, your loved ones and your organization for the next earthquake. Here are some important steps you can take now:

• Make a home earthquake plan.
• Practice Drop, Cover and Hold regularly.
• Bolt furniture and secure your water heater.
• Build or update your disaster supply kit.
• Download MyShake app and enable alerts.
• Learn how to turn off gas, water and electricity.
• Take a First-Aid course and join your Community Emergency Response Team.
• Join a neighborhood preparedness group.

Learn more at www.menlopark.gov/prepared.

*Image shows earthquakes of all magnitudes for the last 30 days courtesy of the United States Geological Survey.