These steps were developed by members of the Earthquake Country Alliance, which includes leading earthquake professionals, emergency managers, government officials, business and community leaders, and others. The recommendations are based on many existing resources and the advice of many organizations.

The members of the Earthquake Country Alliance all have specific roles before, during, and after earthquakes, to reduce earthquake damage and injuries, and to speed recovery. Do your part. Dare to prepare by following the seven steps described in this section.

Earthquakes are inevitable, but the damage from earthquakes is not. Many people think the destruction caused by earthquakes is unavoidable, and that our only option is to pick up the pieces after the shaking stops. No! Earthquake damage and loss can be limited by steps you take before, during, and after. Many also think that all the damage and injuries from earthquakes comes from collapsing buildings. Again, no! As buildings are designed better, more of the losses in earthquakes are from objects that break or fall on people causing injury.

The seven steps described in this section show how we can be safer by knowing what to do before, during, and after earthquakes. The steps may also save a lot of money when structures and contents are not damaged. In addition to following the steps at home, they should also be followed in schools, workplaces, and other facilities. If we all follow these steps, we may save billions of dollars in the next large earthquake. Most importantly, we can reduce the risk of being injured or killed.

Follow these seven steps to prepare your home, your school and your workplace for our next earthquake.

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