Skip to content

The homeowners guide to earthquakes

What you should know to prepare, protect, and recover.

Earthquake damage to a road

California may be known for earthquakes, but if you live anywhere west\_(or just east)\_of the Rockies, you're\_in an earthquake zone. If you live along the Mississippi River in the New Madrid region, that's an earthquake zone too. Earthquakes can\_(and do)\_occur everywhere from Alaska to the Appalachians and New England.\_

Before: Be prepared

You can increase the likelihood of avoiding damage by making these adjustments inside your home. Consider working with a professional to help choose and install safety features.

  • Anchor bookcases and large appliances to walls.
  • Install latches on drawers and cabinet doors to keep contents from spilling.
  • Install ledge barriers on shelves and place heavy items on lower shelves.
  • Secure large, heavy items and breakables directly to shelves.
  • Use closed hooks and wire to securely attach pictures and mirrors to walls.
  • Secure ceiling lights, suspended ceilings, and other hanging items such as chandeliers and plants.
  • Apply safety film to windows and glass doors.
  • Lock the rollers of any large appliances or furniture.
  • Secure water heater(s) to walls.
  • Fit all gas appliances with flexible connections and/or a breakaway gas shutoff device or install a main gas shutoff device.

After: Take precaution and evaluate

Once you've ensured everyone is ok, do the following.

  • Look for any gas leaks, water leaks, and electrical shorts.
  • Turn off any damaged utilities. Do not try to turn them back on yourself, have the utility company assist you.
  • Check TV, online, or radio for any evacuation orders.
  • Be prepared for a possible aftershock.
"

You could save up to 12% when you buy customized car insurance online

check mark icon
check mark icon
check mark icon
check mark icon

Related content

Disaster preperation
Family in loading their truck to safely evacuate
Making an emergency evacuation plan for your family is simple. Here's how.

Begin your free online quote

Loading...

Ready for a quote?

Please note: Information presented on this page is intended to be general information about insurance and is not specific to Liberty Mutual policies. Policies and coverages vary by state and insurer. Contact your insurance company to understand specifics regarding your policy and coverages.