The Earthquake Preparedness Checklist Every Seattle Homeowner Needs

Living in Seattle means fresh coffee, waterfront views, and hiking trails just minutes away. But it also means we live in earthquake country — and preparedness isn’t optional.

The good news? Being prepared doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a clear checklist, you can protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind. Here’s the ultimate earthquake preparedness checklist every Seattle homeowner needs.

1. Build Your Earthquake Kit

Think of this as your “just in case” box. If the Big One hits, you may not have access to power, water, or grocery stores right away.

Every kit should include:

• Water (1 gallon per person, per day for at least 3 days)
  
  
• Non-perishable food (granola bars, canned goods, peanut butter)
  
  
• First aid kit + any prescription medications
  
  
• Flashlights with extra batteries
  
  
• Portable phone charger or solar charger
  
  
• Blankets, gloves, and sturdy shoes
  
  
• Comfort items for kids (snacks, stuffed animals, games)
  
  
• Pet food & supplies
  
  

 Pro Tip: Store your kit in an easy-to-grab tote or backpack. If you have kids, let them decorate their own smaller kit — it makes preparedness less scary and more empowering.

2. Make a Family Evacuation Plan

Seattle neighborhoods vary widely in risk. Some are in liquefaction zones, others in potential tsunami or lahar zones. Knowing your plan ahead of time makes all the difference.

• Know your exits: Identify two ways out of every room in your home.
  
  
• Pick a meeting spot: Choose a safe place outside your home (like a neighbor’s yard) and one outside your neighborhood in case you can’t get back.
  
  
• Practice, don’t just plan: A quick family “drill” makes it second nature — especially for kids.
  
  
• Check your routes: If you’re in a hazard zone, review Seattle’s official evacuation routes.
  
  

3. Secure & Retrofit Your Home

Earthquake preparedness isn’t just about kits — it’s about making your home safer, too.

• Strap your water heater to the wall.
  
  
• Bolt your foundation if your home was built before the 1980s.
  
  
• Secure bookshelves, cabinets, and TVs to the wall.
  
  
• Move heavy items off high shelves.
  
  

These small steps protect your property and also increase resale value — buyers love seeing proactive safety upgrades.

4. Review Your Insurance

Did you know that standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover earthquake damage?

• Look into earthquake insurance or riders specific to Seattle’s risks.
  
  
• Compare deductibles — earthquake coverage often has higher ones.
  
  
• Ask about coverage for personal property and temporary housing if your home is damaged.
  
  

Even if you never need it, having the right insurance adds financial security (and peace of mind).

5. Stay Connected

• Sign up for AlertSeattle, the city’s official emergency notification system.
  
  
• Keep an old-school AM/FM radio with batteries in your kit.
  
  
• Make a contact card with phone numbers in case cell towers are down.
  
  

What Next?

Preparedness isn’t about fear — it’s about living with confidence in the place you love to call home. By building a kit, making a plan, and upgrading your home, you’re protecting both your family and your investment.