As a real estate professional who works closely with families and homes every day—and as a mom of two young girls—I think often about safety, not just transactions.
Recent earthquake activity near San Ramon is an important reminder for families across the Tri-Valley: this is not a moment to panic, but a moment to prepare.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, California experiences thousands of small earthquakes every year. While most are not damaging, they serve as valuable reminders that preparedness matters—especially for families with children.
Preparedness Builds Calm, Not Fear
For families living in two- or three-story homes, townhomes, or condos, earthquake preparedness is less about fear and more about building calm, repeatable habits. These lessons apply just as much to children at school, in after-school programs, or in single-level homes.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emphasizes that households who practice emergency routines experience less panic and faster recovery during disasters.
When children know what to do, uncertainty turns into confidence.
5 Practical Earthquake Preparedness Lessons for Kids
1. Practice “Drop, Cover, Hold On” — Not Running
The American Red Cross recommends teaching children to immediately:
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Drop to the ground
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Cover their head and neck under sturdy furniture
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Hold On until shaking stops
Running during shaking—especially in multi-story homes—can increase injury risk due to falling objects or unstable stairwells.
2. Identify Safe Spots in Every Room
Walk through your home together and identify:
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Safe places (under tables, desks, interior walls)
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Unsafe areas (windows, stairwells, elevators, balconies)
The California Office of Emergency Services highlights that interior safety awareness is especially critical in condos and vertical housing where exits may not be immediately accessible.
3. Secure What’s Above Them
Unsecured furniture is one of the leading causes of earthquake-related injuries inside homes.
Both FEMA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend anchoring:
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Bookshelves
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TVs
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Wall décor
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Tall furniture
Explaining why these items are secured helps children understand cause and effect—and reinforces safety without fear.
4. Create a Simple Family Communication Plan
Prepared families reduce anxiety by planning ahead. FEMA advises every household to establish:
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A primary family contact
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A simple meeting location
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Clear instructions children can remember
Children feel safer when they know there’s a plan—and who is in charge.
5. Involve Kids in the Emergency Kit
The American Red Cross recommends keeping at least a 72-hour emergency kit. Letting kids help pack items such as:
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Water
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Flashlights
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Snacks
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First-aid supplies
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Comfort items
turns preparedness into participation, not fear.
Earthquakes Test Preparation, Not Panic
Earthquakes don’t test panic—they test preparation.
The strongest homes aren’t just well designed or beautifully finished. They’re lived in by families who understand how their homes function—and how to respond when things shift.
Prepared homes create calm families.
If you’re a homeowner or parent in the Tri-Valley and would like guidance on earthquake-conscious home features, condo considerations, or family preparedness planning, I’m always happy to be a resource. Connect with the Nivi Das Team.
