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Emergency preparedness kit for California earthquakes

Be Prepared

Earthquake Preparedness Guide for California

California averages over 10,000 earthquakes per year. Most are too small to feel, but the next big one could happen at any time. This guide helps you prepare your home, your family, and your finances.

1

Build an Emergency Kit

Water: one gallon per person per day for at least three days
Non perishable food for three days, plus a manual can opener
Flashlight, extra batteries, and a battery powered radio
First aid kit with medications for all family members
Copies of important documents in a waterproof container
Cash in small bills (ATMs may not work)
Whistle to signal for help if trapped
Dust masks and plastic sheeting for sheltering in place
Wrench or pliers to turn off gas and water valves
2

Secure Your Home

Strap your water heater to the wall studs
Anchor tall bookcases, dressers, and shelving to walls
Install latches on kitchen cabinets to prevent contents from spilling
Move heavy objects to lower shelves
Secure your TV and large electronics with earthquake straps
Know where your gas shutoff valve is and how to turn it off
Install flexible gas line connectors on appliances
Hang heavy mirrors and pictures away from beds and seating areas
3

Make a Family Plan

Designate a meeting point outside your home
Choose an out of state contact person everyone can check in with
Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with your family
Know the safe spots in every room of your home
Plan for your pets: include food, water, and carriers in your kit
Keep shoes and a flashlight under every bed
Program emergency numbers into every family member's phone
Know the earthquake plans at your workplace, children's school, and daycare

The Financial Preparation Most People Forget

You can have the best emergency kit in the neighborhood, but if a major earthquake damages your home, the real devastation is financial. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake damage. Period.

Without earthquake insurance, you are responsible for every dollar of repair costs. For a moderately damaged home, that can mean $50,000 to $150,000 out of pocket. For a total loss, you could lose everything.

The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) provides affordable earthquake insurance through Farmers Insurance. Policies cover your dwelling, personal property, and loss of use. Deductibles range from 5% to 25% of your dwelling coverage, giving you flexibility to balance premium cost with protection.

Learn About Earthquake InsuranceGet a Quote

Pro Tip

The CEA Brace + Bolt program offers grants up to $3,000 for earthquake retrofitting. Retrofitting reduces damage risk and may lower your earthquake insurance premium. Ask us how to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare Your Finances Too

An emergency kit protects your family. Earthquake insurance protects your home and financial future. Get both in place before the next quake hits.

Start Your Free QuoteCall (209) 957-1100