When the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake struck the Bay Area, it lasted only 15 seconds — yet bridges collapsed, homes shifted off foundations, power went out for days, and neighbors had to rely on each other long before official help arrived. Many people who lived through it still talk about how unprepared they felt, how disorienting those first minutes were, and how much they wished they had stored water, secured furniture, and made a family plan ahead of time.

Today, the US Geological Survey warns the Bay Area faces a 72 percent chance of a major earthquake in the coming years. That statistic is not meant to scare us — it’s meant to remind us that preparedness is a form of care. A few simple steps taken now can keep families safe, reduce injuries, and help our community recover faster.

Below are some of the best tools and guides to help you get ready:

• USGS Bay Area Earthquake Probability
  (Why experts say the next big quake is likely, and what that means for us)
  https://patch.com/california/sanrafael/s/jhkwu/bay-area-faces-72-chance-of-major-earthquake-usgs-warns…

• Earthquake Country Alliance – Webinars + Community Guides
  Clear, practical videos on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake
  https://www.earthquakecountry.org/community/#webinar3

• FEMA Earthquake Home Safety Guide (FEMA 528)
  A free illustrated booklet showing how to secure your home, furniture, gas lines, and water heaters
  https://mitigation.eeri.org/files/fema-528.pdf

• Safe-T-Proof
  Industry-standard seismic bracing and securing products for homes and businesses
  safe-t-proof.com

• California Earthquake Authority
  Info on insurance, retrofitting, and cost-saving programs
  https://www.earthquakeauthority.com/

Preparing is not about fear — it’s about resilience, peace of mind, and knowing our neighborhood will be able to support one another when it matters most. If you want help putting together a plan or getting started, just reach out. I’m happy to support.