Earthquake Preparedness

Sign up to get early warnings from the State of California’s Early Warning System by downloading the MyShake app (available in the Apple App and Google Play stores). 

Get real-time alerts with the City’s emergency notifications tools: 

• Berkeley Emergency Map: See current evacuation orders on the emergency map and download the Genasys Protect app to get real-time alerts on your phone
• AC Alert (Alameda County Alert): View recent messages and sign up to receive detailed alerts via phone and email. 

If you feel shaking or get an earthquake alert, immediately:  

• Drop, cover and hold on. Drop down and get under a strong table or drop against an interior wall. Cover your head and neck with your arms. Stay away from windows.
• Stay where you are. Whether you’re in a car, bed, or a public place, stay put and wait until the shaking stops. If you’re outdoors, steer clear of wires or falling objects.   
• If you are in a recliner or bed: Cover your head and neck with your arms or a pillow until the shaking stops.
• If you use a cane: Drop, cover, and hold on or sit on a chair or bed and cover your head and neck with both hands. Keep your cane near you so it can be used when the shaking stops.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair: Lock your wheels if you can. If using a walker, bend over and get as low as possible. Cover your head and neck with your arms with anything you can, like a book, or a pillow.
• Near the water: Follow steps as indicated above. If severe shaking lasts 20 seconds or more, immediately move to higher ground – the earthquake may have generated a tsunami.

before an earthquake

Most injuries and deaths from earthquakes in the United States are from falling objects. A few simple, low-cost steps can make your space safer, whether you’re at home, school, work, or in another building:

• Keep heavy or breakable items on lower shelves.

• Secure bookshelves and tall furniture so they won’t tip over.

• Move or firmly attach hanging items away from beds, couches, and chairs.

• Use quake gel or putty to keep fragile items from sliding or falling.

If you rent, ask your landlord about securing furniture and building retrofit plans. 

Prepare to be safe at home 

• Store enough drinking water—at least 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days. For more information on gathering supplies, review the Build a Disaster Supply Kit page. 

• Have a backup power source for essential devices (like phones or medical equipment).

• Learn how to turn off gas and other utilities. 

Strengthen and insure your space 

• Standard homeowners or renters insurance does not cover earthquake damage. You will need a separate policy or an add-on. If you rent or own property, check if earthquake insurance is an option.

• Mandatory retrofits: Owners of buildings like unreinforced masonry or wood-frame “soft‑story” structures must comply with City retrofit requirements. 

• Some funding is available to help you retrofit your home or building. 

What to do after an earthquake

• Expect aftershocks.
• Check your surroundings:
  • For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 to contact emergency services. Otherwise, stay off the phone to leave lines clear for emergency responders.
  • If you can, put on shoes with thick soles to protect your feet from broken glass and debris.
  • Check for damage and for anyone who is injured and in need of of attention. 
  • Check gas, water, electrical lines, and appliances for damage. Only turn off the gas if you smell gas or smoke, see a fire, or otherwise suspect a broken gas main.
• Stay tuned to emergency information and instructions. See the emergency alerting page for more details.