Seattle's Essential Earthquake Preparedness Resources

Seattle, located along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, is at risk of experiencing significant seismic events. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and major fault lines means that residents must be well-prepared for the possibility of a powerful earthquake. Fortunately, several resources in the Seattle area provide valuable information and support for earthquake preparedness, helping individuals, families, and businesses take the necessary steps to stay safe before, during, and after an earthquake.

1. Seattle Office of Emergency Management (OEM)

The Seattle Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is a critical resource for earthquake preparedness in the city. OEM works to ensure that residents are informed and ready for a wide range of disasters, including earthquakes. Their website offers a wealth of information on emergency preparedness, including tips on creating a family emergency plan, assembling an emergency kit, and understanding the specific risks Seattle faces regarding seismic activity.

The OEM also provides guides on earthquake preparedness for households, schools, and businesses, helping the community understand how to secure homes and workspaces. They also coordinate with local organizations to provide training, workshops, and events that educate the public about emergency preparedness.

• Link to Seattle OEM Website: https://www.seattle.gov/emergency-management

2. ShakeAlert and Earthquake Early Warning Systems

The ShakeAlert system, a collaborative project between the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the University of Washington, and local emergency management agencies, is a groundbreaking tool designed to provide early warning for earthquakes. ShakeAlert uses a network of seismic sensors throughout the Pacific Northwest to detect earthquakes and send alerts to residents seconds before shaking begins.

Although the warning time may only be a few seconds, it can be enough to take lifesaving actions such as “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” By signing up for ShakeAlert notifications, Seattle residents can receive real-time alerts about earthquake activity.

• Link to ShakeAlert: https://www.shakealert.org/

3. Washington State Emergency Management Division (EMD)

The Washington State Emergency Management Division (EMD) is responsible for coordinating the state's response to emergencies, including earthquakes. They provide valuable resources to help individuals and communities prepare for seismic events. Their website offers tips for personal preparedness, information on strengthening homes, and guidance for emergency plans.

EMD also runs programs designed to assist local governments, businesses, and residents in reducing earthquake risk. Their ongoing efforts include promoting seismic retrofitting and encouraging individuals to secure furniture, appliances, and other items in homes and businesses.

• Link to Washington State EMD Website: https://mil.wa.gov/emergency-management-division

4. American Red Cross – Western Washington Chapter

The American Red Cross plays a pivotal role in disaster response and preparedness throughout the United States, including in Seattle and the surrounding areas. Their Prepare with Pedro program teaches families how to prepare for emergencies, including earthquakes. The Red Cross provides educational materials and offers training courses on basic first aid, CPR, and disaster response.

In addition to preparedness, the Red Cross is instrumental in providing shelter, food, and supplies in the aftermath of an earthquake. They are a vital part of the community’s earthquake response strategy.

• Link to the American Red Cross – Western Washington: https://www.redcross.org/local/washington.html

5. Cascadia Region Earthquake Workgroup (CREW)

The Cascadia Region Earthquake Workgroup (CREW) is a collaborative organization focused on earthquake preparedness across the Pacific Northwest. CREW works with government agencies, scientists, businesses, and communities to raise awareness about earthquake risks and provide resources for retrofitting buildings and strengthening infrastructure.

CREW’s efforts include conducting seismic hazard assessments, running community education programs, and providing tools to help local governments and businesses improve earthquake resilience. One of their major initiatives is the Cascadia Rising exercise, which simulates a large earthquake along the Cascadia Subduction Zone to test local emergency response capabilities.

• Link to CREW Website: https://www.crew.org/

6. Seattle Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF)

The Seattle Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) is a valuable resource for residents in Seattle who are preparing for or recovering from an earthquake. The SDRF helps individuals, families, and businesses who are impacted by earthquakes and other disasters by providing financial assistance and resources for recovery.

In addition to relief efforts, the SDRF helps fund local initiatives focused on disaster preparedness, making it easier for communities to access the tools and knowledge they need to survive an earthquake.

• Link to SDRF Website: https://www.seattle.gov/

7. Seattle Public Utilities (SPU)

In the event of an earthquake, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) plays a crucial role in maintaining access to essential services, such as water and waste management. SPU provides information on how to prepare for water outages that could result from an earthquake, including how to store water and ensure sanitation when plumbing systems are disrupted.

They also offer tips on how to secure water systems in homes and businesses to minimize damage during seismic events.

• Link to SPU Website: https://www.seattle.gov/utilities/

8. Ready.gov

Although not Seattle-specific, the national Ready.gov website offers comprehensive information on disaster preparedness, including detailed guidance for earthquake preparedness. The site provides resources on creating emergency plans, building emergency kits, and preparing children and pets for disasters.

• Link to Ready.gov Earthquake Resources: https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes

Conclusion

Being prepared for an earthquake is essential in Seattle, where the threat of seismic activity is ever-present. By utilizing the resources provided by local organizations like the Seattle Office of Emergency Management, the American Red Cross, and others, residents can take practical steps to protect themselves, their families, and their homes from the effects of an earthquake. By staying informed, planning ahead, and participating in community preparedness efforts, Seattle residents can ensure they are ready when the ground shakes.