Earthquakes: Emergency Preparedness and Recovery

Posted by Carolyn Martin on January 15th, 2026 Posted in: Emergency Preparedness
Tags: disaster preparedness, earthquakes, emergency preparedness

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Earthquakes are among the most serious natural hazards facing communities in the Western United States. Unlike other disasters, they strike suddenly and without warning, testing the strength of public health systems, infrastructure, and the bonds that hold communities together. Preparing for earthquakes is not just a technical challenge but a shared responsibility. This post outlines practical steps and evidence-based strategies to help protect your family and strengthen your community before, during, and after an earthquake.

Understanding Earthquakes and Their Impact

Earthquakes happen when tectonic plates shift, shaking the ground sometimes violently and with little warning. States along the Pacific coast and in seismically active regions are especially vulnerable. A strong earthquake can cause injuries and fatalities when buildings collapse, transport infrastructure fails, or fires break out. In addition to these immediate dangers, secondary damage, such as water and power outages or hazardous material spills, often increases health risks and complicates recovery efforts.

Earthquakes can affect community health long after the shaking stops. They may interrupt care for chronic illnesses, increase the risk of disease in shelters or through unsafe water, and cause stress or anxiety. Recovery works best when we address both short-term and long-term effects.

Community-Level Planning for Earthquake Resilience

Communities can better handle earthquakes by planning ahead. Local governments, emergency managers, and libraries can help by:

• Monitoring seismic hazards with government tools like the USGS Earthquake Map and sharing updates regularly with residents.
• Supporting earthquake safety campaigns and organizing drills to teach “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”.
• Developing and publicizing response plans that spell out steps for evacuation, shelter, and continuity of essential health and social services.
• Coordinating with utilities, schools, hospitals, and public health departments for access to emergency supplies and communication channels.
• Building systems for early warning, such as ShakeAlert, and promoting public safety messages across trusted community spaces.

Libraries function as central hubs for earthquake preparedness: hosting workshops, providing educational materials, and helping residents access risk-mapping tools to learn about hazards in their area.

Personal Actions to Prepare for Earthquakes

Earthquake readiness is most effective when people take simple, proactive steps:

• Secure furniture and appliances to prevent injury during an earthquake. Install latches on cabinets and consider seismic retrofits if possible.
• Build an emergency kit with food, water, medication, first-aid supplies, flashlights, radios, and important documents. Store kits at home, work, and in cars.
• Identify safe places – under sturdy tables, away from windows and heavy objects – and practice how to shelter during a quake.
• Plan communication and evacuation routes, and learn where and how to reunite after evacuation.
• Register for local emergency alerts and review your building’s earthquake plan.
• Consult public sources like Ready.gov, USGS, or local health departments for updates and guidance tailored to your area.

Engaging Vulnerable Populations

Certain groups, such as older adults, people with medical needs, and those with limited mobility or income, may be most affected by earthquakes. Communities can reduce risks by:

• Mapping areas with high vulnerability and focusing outreach, education, or aid programs in those areas.
• Working with service organizations, food banks, and health agencies to distribute supplies and information.
• Building volunteer networks to help with preparedness tasks, such as securing homes, providing transportation, or supporting communication before and after a disaster.

Supporting Mental Health in Earthquake Recovery

People who experience earthquakes often face stress and trauma during and after the event. They may feel grief, loss, or guilt, especially if their homes or families are affected. Supporting mental health is important for long-term recovery and resilience.

Effective strategies include:

• Encouraging healthy coping strategies, including maintaining routines, eating balanced meals, getting enough rest, and practicing relaxation or stress-reduction techniques.
• Offering pathways to help, including local mental health support groups, hotlines, counseling, and community resources specifically tailored for survivors and their families.
• Promoting social support by connecting individuals with trusted friends, family, and neighbors to reduce isolation and strengthen resilience.
• Supporting children and vulnerable groups by reestablishing safe routines, open communication, and access to trauma-informed care when needed.

Libraries and community organizations can play a crucial role by sharing trusted information on coping strategies, connecting patrons with mental health services, and providing a safe space for recovery and connection.

Building an Earthquake-Ready Community

A resilient community depends on shared knowledge, preparation, and strong communication networks. Key strategies include:

• Reviewing past earthquake events to anticipate likely impacts and resource needs.
• Establishing formal communication and monitoring systems with emergency agencies and libraries.
• Public education is ongoing: libraries and information professionals should help residents understand local risk, practice preparedness actions, and know where to find reliable updates.
• Coordinating community response includes organizing emergency actions, mobilizing support networks, and giving clear directions as situations change.

Libraries and outreach specialists serve as trusted guides, connecting people to timely, actionable information that reduces risk and promotes public health. By building strong partnerships and engaging diverse audiences, communities can mitigate earthquake hazards and promote safe, resilient futures.

Resources

1. Ready.gov Earthquakes
   Offers clear, practical guidance on how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from earthquakes.
2. U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Earthquake Hazards Program
   Provides comprehensive scientific information, hazard maps, and safety recommendations for earthquakes.
3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Earthquake Preparedness and Response
   Provides resources and training materials for workplaces, schools, and organizations to improve earthquake readiness.
4. The Great Utah ShakeOut Resources
   Offers drill manuals, educational materials, and organizational resources for earthquake preparedness and drills.
5. American Red Cross Earthquake Safety
   Shares safety tips, emergency preparedness checklists, and information on disaster distress helplines.
6. FEMA Earthquake Preparedness Resources
   Federal agency resources include plans, grants, and guidelines for individuals, businesses, and communities.
7. CDC Earthquake Safety Guidelines
   Public health-focused information on preventing injury, managing chronic conditions, and mental health after earthquakes.
8. Western States Seismic Policy Council (WSSPC)
   A nonprofit consortium that provides seismic safety policies, regional coordination, and earthquake risk education for Western states.

[this post was written by Kathryn Vela, Executive Director of NNLM Region 5]