How to prepare for an earthquake at home

To prepare for an earthquake at home, focus on securing your environment and creating a safety plan. Anchor heavy furniture like bookcases and water heaters to wall studs to prevent tipping. Store breakable items in low cabinets with latches. Identify safe spots in each room, such as under sturdy tables or against interior walls, and practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." Assemble an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit. For homes in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial area, soil conditions can affect foundation stability during seismic events. Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends reviewing our internal article titled House Leveling Guide For Denver’s Front Range Soil Conditions to understand how local soil shifts may impact your home's structure and how to reinforce it against earthquake damage.

What to do after earthquake

After an earthquake, your first priority is safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and administer first aid if needed. Be prepared for aftershocks, which can follow the main quake. Inspect your home for structural damage, focusing on the foundation, walls, and chimney. Look for cracks, shifts, or any signs that the foundation may have moved. If you suspect damage, evacuate the building and contact a professional inspector. Do not re-enter until a qualified expert, such as the team at Bedrock Foundation Builders, has assessed the structure. For a full list of our foundation services, refer to our internal article Services. Document any damage with photos for insurance purposes and avoid using utilities if you smell gas or see sparks.

Earthquake preparedness before, during, and after

Earthquake preparedness is essential for safety. Before an earthquake, secure heavy furniture like bookshelves and water heaters to wall studs, and create a family emergency plan with a meeting spot. Stock a disaster kit with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and a first-aid kit. During the shaking, drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table until the shaking stops. Stay indoors and away from windows. After the earthquake, check for gas leaks, structural damage, and injuries. Be prepared for aftershocks. For homeowners in our service area, a professional seismic evaluation is critical. For more specific guidance on costs and engineering, please refer to our detailed article Bay Area Seismic Retrofit: Costs, Codes, Grants, and the Engineering That Keeps Your Home Standing. Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends consulting a structural engineer for a thorough assessment.

Earthquake-Proof Your Denver Home: A Complete Preparedness Guide

Q: What are 10 ways to survive in an earthquake?

1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Immediately drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops. 2. Stay Indoors: If inside, remain there. Do not run outside where falling debris is a risk. 3. Avoid Windows: Stay clear of glass, mirrors, and unsecured furniture that could shatter or tip. 4. If Outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. 5. If Driving: Pull over to a clear spot, set the parking brake, and stay in the vehicle. 6. Secure Hazards: Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and shelves to walls before an earthquake. 7. Prepare a Kit: Have water, food, flashlights, and a first aid kit ready. 8. Know Gas Shut-Off: Learn how to turn off gas and electricity to prevent fires. 9. Stay Calm: Panic increases risk; focus on protective actions. 10. Practice Drills: Regularly rehearse these steps with your family. For foundation safety assessments after a quake, Bedrock Foundation Builders can provide professional inspections.

Q: 10 safety tips for earthquake

1. Secure heavy items: Anchor bookshelves, water heaters, and large appliances to walls to prevent tipping. 2. Identify safe spots: Under sturdy tables, desks, or against interior walls away from windows. 3. Practice 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On': Drop to hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold onto your shelter. 4. Create a family plan: Establish meeting points and out-of-state contacts. 5. Prepare an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, first aid, flashlights, and batteries. 6. Know how to shut off utilities: Gas, water, and electricity to prevent fires and flooding. 7. Reinforce your foundation: For homes in seismic zones like the Denver-Aurora-Centennial area, consider bolting the structure to its foundation. 8. Keep shoes and a flashlight near your bed: For protection from broken glass and darkness. 9. Stay away from hazards: During shaking, avoid windows, hanging objects, and tall furniture. 10. After the quake, check for injuries and structural damage: Be prepared for aftershocks. For professional advice on securing your home's structure, Bedrock Foundation Builders can provide guidance on foundation retrofitting.

Earthquake Retrofitting

Table of Contents

The 5 Things You Must Do Right Now

Bolt your home to its foundation. If your house is not anchored, it can slide off during shaking. A retrofit costs between 8,500 on average but saves lives.
Build a 14-day emergency kit. After a major quake, utilities may be out for weeks. You need 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Secure heavy furniture and water heaters. Use brackets and straps to prevent tipping and gas-line ruptures.
Create a family communication plan. Designate an out-of-state contact and two meeting spots.
Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” every six months. Muscle memory saves lives when shaking starts.

This guide, prepared by Bedrock Foundation Builders—Denver, CO’s premier foundation specialists—gives you every step, checklist, and expert insight you need to prepare for an earthquake, with special attention to the structural integrity of your home’s foundation.

Understanding Earthquake Risk in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial Area

Many Denver residents believe earthquakes only happen in California. In reality, Colorado records between 50 and 80 earthquakes each year, most below magnitude 3.0 but some capable of causing damage. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) classifies the Denver Basin as a moderate seismic hazard zone.

Historic Events: The largest recorded earthquake in Colorado was a magnitude 6.6 near Estes Park in 1882. More recently, a magnitude 5.3 event struck near Trinidad in 2011.
Induced Seismicity: Since 2014, the Colorado Geological Survey has documented an increase in earthquakes linked to wastewater injection from oil and gas operations, particularly in Weld County and the Denver-Julesburg Basin.
Fault Lines: The Golden Fault, the Pierre Fault, and the Humboldt Fault are all capable of producing moderate shaking felt across the Front Range.

Understanding these risks underscores why foundation preparation is not just a West Coast concern. Denver homes built before 1985 often lack the bolting and bracing required by modern building codes.

How to Prepare Your Home’s Foundation Before an Earthquake

The foundation is the single most critical component of earthquake safety. A house that is not anchored to its foundation can shift, crack, or slide off entirely. Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends the following structural preparedness measures for Denver-area homeowners.

Foundation Anchor and Bolt Retrofit

Older homes in Denver were commonly built with the sill plate simply resting on the foundation without any physical connection. During an earthquake, lateral forces can push the house off its foundation in seconds.

Bolting: Install 5/8-inch diameter anchor bolts at 6-foot intervals to connect the sill plate to the foundation.
Bracing Cripple Walls: If your home has a crawl space with cripple walls, they must be reinforced with structural plywood to prevent collapse.
Steel Moment Frames: For homes with large openings, such as garage doors, steel moment frames provide lateral resistance without sacrificing open space.

Retrofit Component	Average Cost in Denver Metro	Time to Complete
Foundation Anchor & Bolt	$-$ 5,000	1–2 days
Cripple Wall Bracing	$-$ 4,000	1 day
Full Seismic Retrofit (pre-1940 home)	$-$ 15,000	3–5 days
Soft-Story Retrofit (garage above)	$-$ 20,000+	5–7 days

Source: Cost ranges based on 2026 market data from the Colorado Chapter of the Structural Engineers Association and Bedrock Foundation Builders project averages.

Foundation Crack Repair and Maintenance

Even minor cracks become major failure points during shaking. Before an earthquake, inspect your foundation for:

Horizontal cracks wider than 1/8 inch
Stair-step cracks in brick or block foundations
Bowing or leaning walls
Water intrusion or efflorescence

Hairline vertical cracks are common and may not indicate structural risk, but any crack wider than 1/4 inch requires professional evaluation. Bedrock Foundation Builders offers free foundation inspections across the Denver-Aurora-Centennial metro area.

Creating a Family Earthquake Emergency Plan

Communication fails when cell towers go down. Your family plan must work without phones.

Key Elements of a Family Plan

Out-of-State Contact: Choose a relative or friend who lives outside Colorado. All family members call or text this person to report their status.
Primary Meeting Spot: Designate one location near your home (e.g., the mailbox across the street) for minor events.
Secondary Meeting Spot: Choose a location farther away (e.g., a school, park, or community center) in case your neighborhood is inaccessible.
School & Daycare Plans: Know the emergency protocols of your children’s schools and confirm they have your current contact information.
Pet Plan: Identify a neighbor who can evacuate your pets if you are not home.

Practice Drills

Schedule earthquake drills twice a year. A drill should take less than 5 minutes and include:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On for 60 seconds
Simulate checking for injuries
Simulate checking for gas and water leaks
Walk your evacuation route to the meeting spot
Review the emergency kit contents

Emergency Supply Kit: The 14-Day Standard

FEMA and the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management now recommend a 14-day supply for all disasters, not the older 3-day minimum.

Complete Emergency Kit Checklist

Category	Item	Quantity
Water	Potable water	1 gallon per person per day (14 gallons per person)
Food	Non-perishable, high-calorie food	14-day supply per person
Medical	First aid kit, prescription medications	30-day supply of prescriptions
Sanitation	Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties	Sufficient for 14 days
Tools	Flashlight, extra batteries, multi-tool	1 flashlight per person
Communication	Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, whistle	1 per household
Shelter	Emergency blankets, sleeping bags, plastic sheeting, duct tape	1 per person
Documents	Copies of insurance policies, IDs, bank records	Waterproof container
Cash	Small bills	At least $200
Special Needs	Infant formula, pet food, contact lens solution, spare glasses	14-day supply

Source: Adapted from Ready.gov and Colorado Office of Emergency Management guidelines.

Where to Store Your Kit

Store kits in three locations:

Home Kit: In a cool, dry place that is easily accessible.
Car Kit: A smaller version with water, food, blanket, first aid, and walking shoes.
Work Kit: Enough supplies to last 24 hours.

Securing Your Home’s Interior

Most injuries during earthquakes are caused by falling objects, not building collapse.

Room-by-Room Security Checklist

Kitchen

Install safety latches on all cabinet doors
Store glass and heavy items on lower shelves
Use museum putty under appliances, microwaves, and countertop items
Anchor the refrigerator to the wall with a strap

Living Room

Bolt bookcases and entertainment centers to wall studs
Secure televisions with safety straps
Hang mirrors and heavy frames away from seating areas

Bedrooms

Never hang heavy objects above the bed
Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight under each bed
Move beds away from windows

Garage & Utility Room

Strap the water heater to wall studs using a two-strap kit
Install an automatic gas shut-off valve
Store flammable liquids in a locked, ventilated cabinet

How to Shut Off Utilities After an Earthquake

Gas: Turn the valve 90 degrees with a wrench. Do not turn it back on yourself; call Xcel Energy. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Water: Turn the main shut-off valve clockwise. This prevents contaminated water from entering your pipes.
Electricity: Flip the main breaker to OFF only if you see sparks, broken wires, or smell burning.

During an Earthquake: Drop, Cover, and Hold On

The moment shaking starts, your actions must be automatic.

If You Are Indoors

Drop to your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you down.
Cover your head and neck with one arm and hand.
If possible, crawl under a sturdy table or desk and Hold On to a leg.
Stay away from windows, glass, mirrors, and unsecured furniture.
Do not run outside. Most injuries occur near exterior walls and falling debris.

If You Are Outdoors

Move to an open area away from buildings, streetlights, power lines, and trees.
Drop to the ground and cover your head until shaking stops.

If You Are Driving

Pull over to a clear shoulder away from overpasses, bridges, power lines, and signs.
Set the parking brake.
Stay inside the vehicle until shaking stops.
Turn on the radio for emergency information.

If You Are in Bed

Stay in bed. Turn face down. Cover your head and neck with a pillow.
Do not get up and try to run. Broken glass on the floor is a serious hazard.

After the Earthquake: Safety, Inspection, and Recovery

First 15 Minutes

Check yourself for injuries before helping others.
Put on sturdy shoes to protect your feet from broken glass.
Expect aftershocks. They can occur minutes, hours, or days later.
If indoors, evacuate the building using stairs only once shaking has stopped.

Checking Your Home for Structural Damage

Exterior Inspection: Look for cracks in the foundation, shifted porches, leaning chimneys, and separation of stairs from the house.
Interior Inspection: Check floors for new slopes, doors and windows that suddenly stick, and new drywall cracks.
Foundation Inspection: Walk around the perimeter. New stair-step cracks in brick or block, horizontal cracks in concrete, or visible shifting are red flags that require immediate professional assessment.

When to Call Bedrock Foundation Builders

Contact a foundation specialist immediately if you observe:

Doors and windows that no longer open or close
Cracks wider than 1/4 inch in the foundation
Separation between the house and the garage or porch
Sloping or bouncing floors
Wetness or damp spots in the basement or crawl space

Working with Insurance

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake damage.
Earthquake insurance is a separate policy, typically with a deductible of 10% to 20% of the structure’s insured value.
After an earthquake, document all damage with photos and videos before beginning any cleanup.
Keep receipts for all emergency repairs and temporary housing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do earthquakes occur in Colorado?

Colorado experiences approximately 50 to 80 earthquakes per year, most under magnitude 3.0. Induced seismicity has increased the frequency of felt events in the Denver Basin.

Is Denver at risk for a major earthquake?

The USGS classifies the Denver metro area as a moderate seismic hazard zone. While a magnitude 7.0 event is unlikely, a magnitude 5.5 to 6.0 earthquake could cause significant damage to older, unretrofitted structures.

How much does a seismic retrofit cost in Denver?

Foundation anchor and bolt retrofits typically range from 5,000. Full seismic retrofits for older homes can range from 20,000 depending on the home’s size, age, and construction type.

Can I retrofit my home myself?

Bolting and bracing require precise engineering and heavy-duty tools. Improper installation can create a false sense of security. The Structural Engineers Association of Colorado strongly recommends hiring a licensed contractor with seismic retrofit experience.

What is the single most effective thing I can do to prepare?

Bolt your home to its foundation. An unanchored home can slide off its foundation during an earthquake, causing catastrophic structural failure.

Resources and References

U.S. Geological Survey Earthquake Hazards Program: https://www.usgs.gov/natural-hazards/earthquake-hazards
Ready.gov Earthquake Preparedness: https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes
Colorado Geological Survey Seismic Information: https://coloradogeologicalsurvey.org/hazards/earthquakes/
FEMA Earthquake Safety at Home: https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/earthquake
Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills: https://www.shakeout.org/

This guide was prepared by Bedrock Foundation Builders, Denver, CO’s premier foundation specialists. Our team delivers unparalleled expertise and an unbreakable dedication to structural integrity. We do not just build foundations; we craft the fundamental support systems that bring architectural visions to life. For a free foundation inspection or to discuss seismic retrofitting, contact Bedrock Foundation Builders today.

House Leveling Guide For Denver’s Front Range Soil Conditions

Services

Bay Area Seismic Retrofit: Costs, Codes, Grants, and the Engineering That Keeps Your Home Standing

People Also Ask

What are the 5 steps to prepare for an earthquake?

To prepare for an earthquake, follow these five critical steps. First, secure heavy furniture like bookshelves and water heaters to wall studs using brackets or straps. Second, create a family emergency plan that includes a meeting spot and out-of-state contact. Third, assemble a disaster supply kit with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Fourth, learn how to shut off gas and water valves to prevent fires and flooding. Fifth, practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On drills regularly. For properties in the Denver–Aurora–Centennial area, Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends inspecting your foundation for cracks and reinforcing it if needed to minimize structural damage during seismic activity.

What is the safest place to be during an earthquake?

The safest place to be during an earthquake is indoors, under a sturdy piece of furniture like a heavy desk or table. This position protects you from falling debris, which is the leading cause of injury. If no table is available, you should crouch against an interior wall, covering your head and neck with your arms. For those in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial area, Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends staying away from windows, heavy mirrors, and hanging objects. Never stand in a doorway unless it is a load-bearing frame, as modern doorways are not significantly stronger than other parts of the structure. If you are outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and utility wires.

What are 10 ways to survive in an earthquake?

1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Immediately drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until shaking stops. 2. Stay Indoors: If inside, remain there. Do not run outside where falling debris is a risk. 3. Avoid Windows: Stay clear of glass, mirrors, and unsecured furniture that could shatter or tip. 4. If Outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. 5. If Driving: Pull over to a clear spot, set the parking brake, and stay in the vehicle. 6. Secure Hazards: Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and shelves to walls before an earthquake. 7. Prepare a Kit: Have water, food, flashlights, and a first aid kit ready. 8. Know Gas Shut-Off: Learn how to turn off gas and electricity to prevent fires. 9. Stay Calm: Panic increases risk; focus on protective actions. 10. Practice Drills: Regularly rehearse these steps with your family. For foundation safety assessments after a quake, Bedrock Foundation Builders can provide professional inspections.

What are the 3 P's of earthquakes?

The 3 P's of earthquake safety are Prepare, Plan, and Practice. Preparation involves securing heavy furniture and having emergency supplies like water and a first aid kit. Planning means establishing communication methods and meeting points with your family. Practice requires regular drills so everyone knows to Drop, Cover, and Hold On during shaking. For homeowners in the Denver–Aurora–Centennial, CO Metropolitan area, these steps are vital, as our region can experience seismic activity. Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends integrating these 3 P's into your home safety strategy to protect your property and loved ones.

10 safety tips for earthquake

1. Secure heavy items: Anchor bookshelves, water heaters, and large appliances to walls to prevent tipping. 2. Identify safe spots: Under sturdy tables, desks, or against interior walls away from windows. 3. Practice 'Drop, Cover, and Hold On': Drop to hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and hold onto your shelter. 4. Create a family plan: Establish meeting points and out-of-state contacts. 5. Prepare an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, first aid, flashlights, and batteries. 6. Know how to shut off utilities: Gas, water, and electricity to prevent fires and flooding. 7. Reinforce your foundation: For homes in seismic zones like the Denver-Aurora-Centennial area, consider bolting the structure to its foundation. 8. Keep shoes and a flashlight near your bed: For protection from broken glass and darkness. 9. Stay away from hazards: During shaking, avoid windows, hanging objects, and tall furniture. 10. After the quake, check for injuries and structural damage: Be prepared for aftershocks. For professional advice on securing your home's structure, Bedrock Foundation Builders can provide guidance on foundation retrofitting.

Earthquake safety

For homeowners in the Denver-Aurora-Centennial area, earthquake safety is a critical consideration due to the region's seismic activity. While major quakes are rare, smaller tremors can still cause structural damage. The most effective measure is a professional seismic retrofit, which strengthens your home's foundation and load-bearing walls. This process typically involves bolting the house to its foundation and adding plywood sheathing to cripple walls. For a comprehensive overview, please see our internal article titled Seismic Retrofit in Denver: Essential Facts & Benefits. At Bedrock Foundation Builders, we recommend a professional inspection to identify vulnerabilities. Securing heavy furniture and knowing your gas shut-off valve are also vital steps for immediate safety.

5 things to do before earthquake

Before an earthquake strikes, preparation is key to safety. First, secure heavy furniture like bookshelves, water heaters, and large appliances to wall studs using straps or brackets. Second, create a family emergency plan that includes a designated meeting spot and a communication strategy. Third, assemble an emergency kit with at least three days of water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Fourth, learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity at the main valves to prevent fires and flooding. Fifth, practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills regularly so every family member reacts instinctively. For homes in the Denver–Aurora–Centennial area, Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends checking your foundation for cracks or weaknesses, as stable ground support is essential during seismic events.

Earthquake preparedness plan

An earthquake preparedness plan for a home or building should include securing heavy furniture and appliances to walls, knowing how to shut off gas and water valves, and having an emergency kit with water, food, and first aid supplies. For foundation safety, it is critical to ensure your structure is properly anchored to its foundation, as shifting during seismic activity can cause severe damage. Bedrock Foundation Builders recommends annual inspections to check for cracks or weaknesses that could worsen in an earthquake. Creating a family communication plan and practicing drop, cover, and hold on drills are also essential steps to minimize risk and protect lives during a seismic event.