Natural disasters, like earthquakes, are the type of thing that you never think can happen. However, you should always be diligent and prepared in case one does strike. The most recent was a magnitude 3.7 earthquake near Orillia, ON, in the late evening hours on January 27th, 2026. Residents report experiencing shaking or tremors; there are no current reports of injuries or damage. The time before that? A 4.0-magnitude event 131 kilometres south-east of Quebec in 2023. So, they do happen, even if infrequently. Being unprepared for an earthquake is not prudent for your household or your finances. Although uncommon, it’s never too safe. Here are our earthquake safety tips to remember before, during, and after an earthquake strikes.
Earthquake Safety: How to Prepare Before an Earthquake
As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your home and everyone in it is safe in the event of an earthquake. Earthquake safety should always be taken seriously, and you can never be too prepared. Here are a few earthquake safety tips to help you if the time ever comes:
Replenish Supplies
Make sure you have a stock of water, canned goods, and other non-perishables in your home if you lose power. It’s also wise to have a camping stove, small propane tanks, a water filtration system, and non-perishable items in the event of a power outage. Moreover, keep flashlights, batteries, and sturdy shoes handy.
Brace Everything
During an earthquake, everything around you becomes a hazard. With this in mind, you can prepare your home for earthquake safety in simple ways. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, make sure to brace or bolt down any large objects or pieces, starting with your furniture. Try to put more fragile and heavier objects near the bottom. When hanging heavy items, such as paintings or TVs, on your walls, mount them farther from frequently used areas. This includes beds, couches, and similar items. Finally, know your gathering place. If you and your household ever experience an earthquake, ensure you have an evacuation plan and know where to meet beforehand. Knowing your way out and planning is vital to earthquake safety!
Additional Steps to Take Before an Earthquake Hits
Beyond stocking emergency supplies and bracing furniture, homeowners can further protect their households by taking the following steps:
- Secure water heaters, shelving units, and tall furniture to wall studs
- Install flexible gas line connectors to reduce the risk of ruptures
- Learn how to safely shut off gas, water, and electricity
- Store important documents—such as insurance policies, identification, and emergency contacts—in a fire- and water-resistant container
- Keep a charged power bank and a battery-operated radio available
Preparing in advance can significantly reduce damage and help your household recover more quickly after an earthquake.
Earthquake Safety: What to Do During an Earthquake
To protect yourself and your household, follow the Canadian Red Cross’ Stop, Drop, and Hold method.
- Drop: Drop to the ground before the earthquake causes you to fall.
- Cover: Take cover under a piece of sturdy furniture, such as a desk or table, to protect your head and torso from falling objects.
- Hold: Hold on to the object you are under to remain covered.
When you are inside any space, stay away from windows, heavy objects, and, contrary to popular belief, any doorways. And most importantly, stay inside! If you are outdoors when an earthquake occurs, stay outside, away from buildings, and move to an open area, following the stop, drop, and hold method. If you are driving when this happens, pull over and apply the parking brake.
Earthquake Safety: What to Do After an Earthquake Hits
The most important thing to remember about earthquake safety is the chance of aftershocks. If these occur, follow the stop, drop and hold method once again. Remember, aftershocks can happen anytime after the initial quake, from minutes to months later. Once it is clear and you feel comfortable, go around your house, survey the damage and determine whether the environment is unsafe. When looking around, look out for any substances that may be flammable (gasoline, bleach, etc.) and (safely) put out any small fires, if possible/applicable.
Also, it’s advisable to change into long sleeves and long pants, if possible, to avoid injuries from broken debris. Always check for injuries on yourself before helping anyone else. Once you have done that, help your loved ones and neighbours, if you can safely. Once you and your household are accounted for and in a safe space, tune in to the news and check in with your family. If the power is out, turn on the radio. If you are not in your household when the earthquake strikes, do not return home until authorities deem it safe to leave your current location.
Earthquake Safety for Condos, Apartments, and Special Situations
Earthquake preparedness looks different depending on where and how you live.
If you live in a condo or apartment:
- Do not use elevators after an earthquake
- Follow your building’s emergency evacuation procedures
- Be aware that structural damage may not be immediately visible
Do you have pets?
- Keep leashes, carriers, and pet supplies accessible
- Include pet food and medications in your emergency kit
If you or a household member has mobility challenges:
- Identify safe cover areas ahead of time
- Arrange a check-in or buddy plan with neighbours or building staff
Filing an Earthquake-Related Insurance Claim
Regarding filing an insurance claim on any of the damages to your home, your home insurance policy may cover certain “unexpected events,” but not all of them. Such events may include:
- Fires
- Wildfires
- Wind-related weather (i.e. tornadoes, hurricanes)
- Ice/hail
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Water damage (from inside the home)
Your home insurance policy may cover some types of damage related to an earthquake. But it’s always best to be familiar with your policy before disaster strikes, not after. For example, if an earthquake ruptures a gas line and a fire breaks out in your home, your home insurance policy may cover the resulting damage. However, that is not the case for earthquakes, landslides, floods, or sewer backup. Generally, home insurance policies do not cover the damages caused by earthquakes. Ultimately, it comes down to a case-by-case basis, which is why it’s essential to consult your isure broker about your home insurance policy coverage.
Earthquake Safety: A Conclusion
No matter the odds, earthquake safety is not something to overlook, and every person should be aware of the risks and how best to minimize them to optimize their household’s safety. If you have any further questions about earthquake safety and its implications for your home insurance, please feel free to give isure a call.
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