Earthquake Preparedness for BC Homes

Get your home and family ready to shake.

Coastal BC sits in an active earthquake zone, and a significant quake is a real risk. Preparing your home and family in advance dramatically improves safety and recovery — and most steps are cheap and quick.

Secure your home's contents

Most earthquake injuries come from falling objects, not collapse. Anchor tall furniture, bookshelves, and water heaters to wall studs, secure your TV and heavy items, and use latches on cabinets. Move heavy objects off high shelves.

Know your shutoffs

Learn how to shut off your gas, water, and electricity, and keep any needed tools nearby. After a major quake, you may need to shut off gas if you smell it. Practise so it's second nature.

Build a kit and plan

Keep an emergency kit with water (about 4 litres per person per day for several days), food, medications, a flashlight, radio, and first aid. Agree on a family meeting place and out-of-area contact. Practise 'drop, cover, and hold on.'

Frequently asked questions

How do I prepare my home for an earthquake?

Anchor tall furniture and the water heater to studs, secure heavy items, learn your gas/water/electrical shutoffs, and keep an emergency kit with several days of water and supplies.

What should be in an earthquake kit?

Several days of water (about 4 L per person per day), food, medications, flashlight, radio, first aid, and important documents. Add a plan and a family meeting place.