Oakland’s unique charm, from its diverse neighborhoods to its thriving arts scene, makes it a special place to call home. But living here also means acknowledging the ever-present risk of earthquakes. Earthquake preparedness in Oakland isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a responsibility we share as a community. This guide will equip you with the tools and information you need to navigate this reality, from creating a family emergency plan to understanding the City of Oakland’s resources and how to access financial assistance for seismic upgrades. Let’s work together to build a safer and more prepared Oakland.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize earthquake preparedness: Secure your home, create a family emergency plan, and assemble an earthquake kit with essential supplies. Regularly practice drills to ensure a swift, coordinated response when an earthquake strikes.
- Strengthen your home’s structure: Reinforce your foundation, brace walls and roofs, and secure utilities to mitigate potential damage. Investigate financial assistance programs to make these upgrades more accessible.
- Connect with community resources and stay informed: Utilize early warning systems like the MyShake app and AC Alert. Participate in local preparedness workshops and consider joining a neighborhood response team. Research earthquake insurance options to protect your financial investment.
What is Oakland’s Earthquake Risk?
Living in Oakland means accepting a certain level of earthquake risk. Understanding this risk is the first step in preparing yourself, your family, and your home. Let’s explore Oakland’s earthquake history and current predictions.
Past Earthquakes & Their Impact
The 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, a 6.9 magnitude quake, serves as a stark reminder of Oakland’s vulnerability. While the epicenter was in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the collapse of the Cypress Street Viaduct in Oakland resulted in tragic loss of life and widespread damage. The Loma Prieta earthquake caused billions of dollars in damage across Northern California, impacting thousands of homes and businesses. This event highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and earthquake preparedness.
Current Risk & Key Statistics
Experts predict a 46% chance of a major earthquake (7.5+ magnitude) striking California within the next 30 years. Oakland’s proximity to the Hayward Fault significantly increases the city’s risk. The Hayward Fault runs through densely populated areas, making seismic retrofitting of homes and buildings essential to protect lives and property. Preparing for an earthquake is not just a good idea—it’s a necessity for Oakland residents.
Prepare Your Home for an Earthquake
Protecting your family and home starts with simple steps you can take today. A little preparation goes a long way toward minimizing damage and ensuring your safety during an earthquake.
Secure Furniture & Heavy Objects
Before the ground starts shaking, secure heavy furniture like bookcases, dressers, and entertainment centers. Use brackets, anchors, or straps to attach them to wall studs. This prevents them from tipping over and potentially causing injuries. Don’t forget about mirrors and artwork—make sure they’re securely fastened as well. Childproof latches on cabinets will keep them closed during the shaking, preventing items from falling out. And, consider strapping your water heater to avoid leaks or damage, which can be a significant issue after an earthquake.
Make a Family Emergency Plan
Develop a family emergency plan that includes a clear communication strategy. Earthquakes can separate families, so establish a meeting point where everyone can gather if they get separated. Make sure everyone in the family knows how to contact each other, including out-of-state contacts who can help relay messages if local communication is disrupted. Practice your plan regularly so everyone knows what to do when the time comes.
Find Safe Spots in Each Room
Identify safe spots in each room of your house. These are places you can take cover during the shaking. Look for sturdy furniture like a heavy table or desk that you can get under. If that’s not an option, an interior wall away from windows and exterior walls is a good alternative. Practice getting to your safe spot quickly and efficiently. Knowing where to go and how to protect yourself can make all the difference during an earthquake.
Build Your Earthquake Kit
When an earthquake hits, you might be on your own for a while. A well-stocked earthquake kit is your lifeline in those first crucial hours and days. Think of it as your personal safety net, providing essentials until help arrives or infrastructure is restored. Let’s break down what you need:
Water, Food & Supplies
The U.S. Geological Survey recommends at least a two-week supply of food and water. That might sound like a lot, but access to clean water and grocery stores could be disrupted after a major earthquake. Choose non-perishable foods that require no cooking, like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit. Don’t forget a manual can opener! For water, aim for one gallon per person per day. Store water in durable containers, and periodically check and refresh your supply. Beyond food and water, stock up on essential supplies like blankets, a first-aid kit, toiletries, and garbage bags. Secure heavy items in your home now to prevent them from falling during an earthquake.
First Aid & Medications
In an emergency, a well-equipped first-aid kit is invaluable. Make sure yours includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you or your family members take. Keep a first-aid manual handy as a refresher on basic procedures. If anyone in your household has specific medical needs, like allergies or diabetes, ensure you have extra supplies.
Tools & Equipment
The right tools can help you stay safe and connected after an earthquake. Include a fire extinguisher in your kit, along with wrenches to turn off gas and water if necessary. Flashlights and a battery-powered radio are crucial for staying informed, so stock up on extra batteries. A whistle can help you signal for help if you become trapped. Consider a hand-crank or solar-powered charger for your phone, too.
Strengthen Your Home Against Earthquakes
Living in Oakland means living with the reality of earthquakes. While we can’t predict them, we can take steps to protect our homes and families. Strengthening your house now can significantly reduce damage and even save lives in a future earthquake.
Reinforce Your Foundation
A strong foundation is your home’s first line of defense. In Oakland, the risk posed by the Hayward Fault makes a seismically sound foundation essential. “Soft story” buildings—those with large ground-floor openings like garages or storefronts—are particularly vulnerable. Check with the City of Oakland for mandatory retrofitting programs and available financial assistance. Even if your home isn’t required to undergo retrofits, consider a professional evaluation to identify potential weaknesses and explore reinforcement options.
Brace Walls & Roof
Bracing your walls and roof creates a stronger, more unified structure that can better withstand the forces of an earthquake. This involves adding bracing elements to connect walls to the roof and foundation, creating a continuous load path. Think of it like adding internal scaffolding to your house. The City of Oakland can provide guidance and information on available financial assistance programs for these crucial upgrades.
Secure Utilities
Protecting your utilities is a critical step in earthquake preparedness. Knowing how to shut off your gas, water, and electricity can prevent fires, floods, and other hazards after an earthquake. Alameda County’s emergency preparedness resources offer detailed instructions on locating and shutting off your utilities. Beyond the main shutoffs, secure your water heater by strapping it to the wall and install flexible gas lines to prevent ruptures. Inside your home, secure heavy furniture to the walls to prevent tipping and use childproof latches on cabinets to keep contents from spilling during shaking. These simple steps can make a big difference in your safety and well-being after an earthquake.
Oakland’s Earthquake Early Warning System
Knowing what to expect can make all the difference when it comes to earthquakes. While we can’t predict them, Oakland has resources to give you a critical heads-up.
How It Works
The MyShake App is an early warning system that sends alerts about nearby seismic activity. It’s designed to give you a few precious seconds of warning before the shaking starts, allowing you to drop, cover, and hold on. The app uses a network of sensors to detect earthquake waves, and if it determines shaking is likely in your area, you’ll get an alert.
Get Alerts
Want more ways to stay informed? Register for AC Alert, Alameda County’s emergency notification system. This system sends real-time alerts about various emergencies, including earthquakes, directly to your phone or email. It’s a great way to stay in the loop, even if you’re not near a TV or radio. Additionally, Oakland’s CORE program (Communities of Oakland Respond to Emergencies) offers training and resources to help residents prepare for emergencies. They can teach you how to receive alerts and respond effectively, empowering you to take control during a stressful situation.
Community Earthquake Resources
Knowing how to react during an earthquake is critical, but connecting with local resources can significantly enhance your preparedness. Oakland offers several programs and resources to help residents prepare for and respond to earthquakes.
Preparedness Workshops
The City of Oakland’s Communities of Oakland Respond to Emergencies (CORE) program offers free emergency preparedness training. These workshops equip individuals, neighborhood groups, and community organizations with the skills and knowledge to handle earthquake situations effectively. The CORE program covers a range of topics, from creating family emergency plans to basic first aid and search and rescue techniques.
Neighborhood Response Teams
CORE also facilitates the formation of Neighborhood Response Teams (NRTs). These teams are trained to provide immediate support within their communities following a disaster. NRT members learn how to conduct damage assessments, provide basic first aid, and organize search and rescue efforts. Joining an NRT can empower you to make a real difference in your neighborhood during a crisis.
Online Resources
Beyond local programs, numerous online resources offer valuable information and guidance on earthquake preparedness. The Red Cross provides comprehensive resources, including first aid and CPR training information specific to Oakland. Oakland CPR Training offers CPR and first aid courses, empowering individuals to respond effectively to medical emergencies that may arise after an earthquake. Knowing CPR can be a life-saving skill in a disaster scenario.
Financial Help for Seismic Retrofitting
Worried about the cost of strengthening your Oakland home against earthquakes? Don’t be. Several financial assistance programs can help make your home safer and more resilient.
Grants & Incentives
Oakland homeowners can explore various grant programs to offset seismic retrofitting costs. The California Earthquake Brace & Bolt (EBB) Program offers grants of up to $3,000 for eligible single-family and duplex homeowners. If your household income is $87,360 or less, you can apply for funds to help with the cost of a seismic retrofit. Keep in mind that you’ll still need to obtain a permit from the City of Oakland before starting any work. The City of Oakland website has details on the permitting process.
Another helpful resource is the California Earthquake Soft-Story Retrofit (ESS) Grant Program. This program offers grants of up to $13,000, specifically for retrofitting “soft stories.” Soft stories are common in homes with living spaces over garages or large openings—and they’re particularly vulnerable during earthquakes. Similar to the EBB program, you’ll need a separate permit from the City of Oakland for any work completed through this grant program. These programs are essential for Oakland homeowners, given our proximity to the Hayward Fault. Learn more about earthquake safety on the City of Oakland website.
Loans & Tax Breaks
If you own a larger building (five or more units) in Oakland, you’re likely aware of the mandatory soft-story retrofit program. This program ensures that larger buildings meet current seismic safety standards, protecting both tenants and the property itself. While mandatory, it contributes significantly to the overall safety of our community. Learn more about the program requirements and how it impacts your building.
If you recently purchased an older home in Oakland, you might qualify for reduced permit fees for seismic retrofits. In some cases, permits can cost as little as $250 if they adhere to current safety standards. This can make a real difference in your budget as you work to make your new home earthquake-ready. Check with the City of Oakland for details on reduced permit fees for seismic retrofits.
What To Do During & After an Earthquake
Knowing what to do during and after an earthquake can make all the difference. Here’s how to stay safe in Oakland:
When Shaking Starts
When you feel the ground shake, your first instinct might be to panic. Don’t. Instead, remember these three words: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Immediately drop to your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked over and allows you to crawl to shelter if nearby. Next, cover your head and neck with your arms and crawl under a sturdy table or desk if possible. If there isn’t nearby shelter, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows) and stay on your knees, covering your head and neck with your arms and hands. Finally, hold on to your shelter (or your head and neck) until the shaking stops. This simple advice from Alameda County can significantly increase your chances of survival.
After the Earthquake
Once the shaking stops, check yourself and those around you for injuries. If anyone needs medical attention, administer first aid if you’re able, and call 911 as soon as it’s safe. Next, be aware of your surroundings. Check for fires, gas leaks, downed power lines, and structural damage. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve if you can safely do so and leave the area immediately. Report the leak to PG&E. Be prepared for aftershocks, which can be just as dangerous as the initial quake. Stay informed about potential hazards like landslides, floods, and tsunamis, especially if you live near the coast. Having an emergency supply kit with enough food, water, and essential supplies for at least two weeks is crucial. Also, establish a communication plan with your family in case you get separated. Knowing how to reconnect after a disaster can save precious time and reduce anxiety.
Long-Term Earthquake Preparedness
Keeping your family safe during an earthquake goes beyond just having a kit. It takes a long-term commitment to preparedness. Regularly practicing drills and staying informed about the latest safety recommendations are crucial for effectively responding to and recovering from an earthquake.
Practice Drills & Update Plans
Don’t wait for an earthquake to test your emergency plan. Regularly practicing earthquake drills will help you and your family react quickly and calmly when one hits. Walk through your plan step by step, including how to “drop, cover, and hold on.” Identify safe spots in each room and practice getting there quickly. After each drill, discuss what worked well and what could be improved. Update your plan as needed, accounting for changes in family members, contact information, or your home’s layout. Oakland’s CORE program offers free training for residents, providing valuable resources and support.
Stay Informed
Earthquake science and safety recommendations are constantly evolving. Staying up-to-date on the latest developments can significantly impact your safety. Regularly review resources from reputable sources like the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), which offers valuable information on earthquake preparedness and dispels common myths. Remember, when a major disaster strikes, local emergency personnel may be overwhelmed. Having a personal emergency plan is vital for ensuring your safety and the safety of your loved ones. Make sure your plan includes communication strategies, evacuation routes, and meeting points.
Earthquake Insurance
Living in Oakland means understanding earthquake realities. While we can’t predict them, we can prepare for them. A crucial part of that preparation? Earthquake insurance. Standard homeowners, renters, and condo insurance policies typically exclude earthquake damage. That’s where a dedicated earthquake insurance policy comes in.
Coverage Options
Earthquake insurance offers several key protections. It covers damage to your home’s structure, protecting your investment from costly repairs. Your personal belongings—furniture, electronics, clothes—are also covered under the personal property section of most policies. And, if your home is uninhabitable after an earthquake, earthquake insurance can help with temporary living expenses, like a hotel or rental.
Deciding on Insurance
Choosing the right earthquake insurance involves understanding your needs and Oakland’s specific risks. First, consider your property type. Whether you own a house, condo, or rent, different policies apply. Oakland Magazine offers helpful advice on navigating these options. Next, prioritize comprehensive coverage. This ensures protection for your main structure, additional structures like garages, and your personal belongings. Halbrook Insurance Agency offers insights into comprehensive coverage options. Finally, explore different plans and rates to find a balance between affordability and sufficient coverage. Bowers Associates provides resources for comparing rates. Getting earthquake insurance is a proactive step toward protecting your financial well-being in the face of the unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my homeowners insurance cover earthquake damage?
No, standard homeowners, renters, and condo insurance policies typically do not cover earthquake damage. You need a separate earthquake insurance policy to protect your home and belongings.
What is the biggest earthquake risk in Oakland?
Oakland’s proximity to the Hayward Fault poses the most significant earthquake risk. This fault runs through densely populated areas, increasing the potential for widespread damage.
What should I do if an earthquake happens while I’m driving?
If you’re driving during an earthquake, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses, bridges, and power lines. Stay in your car until the shaking stops.
How can I secure my water heater to prevent damage during an earthquake?
You can secure your water heater by strapping it to the wall studs using metal straps and lag screws. This will help prevent it from tipping over and causing water damage.
Where can I find more information about earthquake preparedness in Oakland?
The City of Oakland’s website, Alameda County’s emergency preparedness website, and the Red Cross all offer valuable resources and information on earthquake preparedness specific to Oakland. You can also download the MyShake app for early earthquake warnings.
