Earthquakes: Prepare and Protect

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• What is an earthquake?
• How can I prepare for an earthquake?
• What should we do during an earthquake?
• What should I do after an earthquake?
• Is earthquake damage covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

What is an earthquake?

Unlike hurricanes, floods and tornadoes- earthquakes are not disasters caused by weather, but rather by the movement of the earth’s crusts along the plate margins. The earth’s crust is made up of tectonic plates which are constantly moving together and apart at various places across the earth’s surface. Pressure builds up in the various places where the plates push together especially when one plate gets “stuck” trying to pass under another. This creates a great deal of pressure build-up. The trembling of the earth felt during an earthquake is due to the up-heaving of land masses when the pressure build-up releases and seismic waves occur. While earthquakes can happen anywhere in the country, they occur most often along the west coast of the United States as this is the convergence point of the Pacific and North American plates

How can I prepare my home and family for an earthquake?

As with any disaster preparation plan, be sure to have a Disaster Kit pre-organized in the event that you need to evacuate. Also, take the following precautions to prevent hazards in your home:

• Make sure shelves are fastened to the walls as well as any large pieces of furniture that could fall over during an earthquake
• Please breakable items in closed cabinets and make sure the cabinets have latches so that they can be closed securely
• Do not hang mirrors or other decorative objects over couches or beds
• Make sure all hanging light fixtures are secure
• Consult with an architectural expert to see if your home is structurally sound to withstand an earthquake. Some homes can be retrofitted to better withstand earthquake damage.

What should we do during an earthquake?

Earthquakes are one of the most difficult natural disasters to predict and they most likely occur without any warning at all. This is why it is always best to be prepared for an earthquake at all times if you live in an earthquake prone region.

• At first sign of an earthquake drop the ground and take cover away from objects that can fall on you and injure you. If you can, find a strong, sturdy table or other piece of furniture to hide under do so.
• Stay away from doorways and windows and use your arms and hands to protect your face from breaking glass.
• If you are outdoors during an earthquake, move quickly to an open area away from electrical lines, trees and buildings.

What should I do after an earthquake?

Stay precautious after an earthquake as oftentimes there may be a series of aftershocks. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. If not, look for injured victims around you and help administer any first aid you can. Look for downed or damaged utility lines including electrical or gas. If your home appears to have any structural damage, stay outdoors until an expert deems it safe to re-enter.

Is earthquake damage covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

Typically, damage that is caused to your home by an earthquake is not covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. A separate earthquake insurance policy must be purchased to supplement your standard coverage in order to protect your home from earthquake loss. Ask your homeowners insurance agent if this coverage is available and if it is recommended in your area.

FREE Home Inventory Checklist- Download a free home inventory checklist and start documenting your home’s contents. In the event of a natural disaster, your home inventory will help speed up your claims process by providing documentation of what you lost.