December brings celebrations, new devices, and time spent with the people we care about most. As the year wraps up, it’s also the perfect moment to help your California friends and family start 2026 ready for whatever comes their way — especially earthquakes.
Your 5-Minute Preparedness Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist you can share with family and friends. Walk through it together, text it to your group chat, or tackle it yourself and pass along what you learned.
- Get Connected to Earthquake Warnings
California’s free earthquake early warning system delivers alerts seconds before shaking starts, enough time to Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Help someone:
- Download the MyShake App or enable Android Earthquake Alerts in phone settings
- Set location services to “always on” so the system works properly
- Turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) if they’re not already enabled
- Build (or Refresh) the Emergency Kit
Californians should have basic supplies ready. Help gather essentials for three days without power or water:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food and manual can opener
- Flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers
- First aid supplies and medications
- Important documents in waterproof container
- Cash (ATMs won’t work without power)
- Supplies for pets
- Make a Quick Safety Plan
Talk through the basics:
- Where are the safe spots in each room? (Under sturdy tables, away from windows)
- How will you reconnect if separated? (Designate an out-of-state contact)
- Does everyone know Drop/Lock, Cover, and Hold On?
- Secure the Heavy Stuff
Walk through their space: Are tall furniture and water heaters anchored to walls? Are heavy items secured on high shelves? These five-minute fixes prevent injuries during shaking.
- Know the Other Risks
California isn’t just earthquake country. Depending on where your loved ones live, they might also need plans for wildfires, floods, or extreme heat. Visit earthquake.ca.gov and caloes.ca.gov for resources on all hazards.
Why This Matters
California experiences thousands of earthquakes each year, and preparedness isn’t just for the Big One. It’s also for the medium ones, the small ones that catch you off guard, and the other disasters that don’t wait for convenient timing. Your five-minute conversation about preparedness could make a real difference when something happens.
This is a gift people will actually use!