Can Las Vegas Get Earthquakes

When you think of earthquakes and where the next "big one" is going to hit, you probably think of California not Nevada. But the truth is, Nevada is the third most seismically active state in the continental United States, behind only California and Alaska. Nevada and Las Vegas are situated on a network of fault lines, and earthquakes happen in the state all the time. Most are too small to feel, but that doesn't mean a "big one" can't happen. Whether it be tomorrow or a century from now, the threat of a significant seismic event is very real.

How You Can Be Prepared

Make an emergency kit for your household. Put together necessities, such as medications, flashlights, batteries, first-aid kit, etc., and have 10 days' worth of food and water on hand. Las Vegas is an island in the desert − the only routes into the city are by air and highway. If the roads were to be damaged or cut off, the valley would be left with only the food, fuel, and resources it already had, so it's best to be prepared with a supply to hold your family over until aid can arrive.

Have a plan for your family for any disaster that could happen. Know how you are going to get in touch with each other and know where you are going to meet up.

Take our free community emergency response training (CERT Training). This training will help you respond to any emergency you may experience. The class teaches things like basic first aid, basic search and rescue, how to put out small fires and more. More information on these free courses can be found here.

Take the simple step to subscribe to the city of Las Vegas' emergency alerts to be notified immediately if disaster were to strike. Sign up at https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/BF1085069456.

What To Do And Not To Do When An Earthquake Happens

Drop, cover and hold on. Get under something sturdy like a desk or a table, cover your head and neck, and hold on until the shaking stops.

If you are outside, move into the open away from anything that could fall on you, such as buildings, power lines and trees. If you can do so safely, drop, cover and hold on.

If you're driving, find a safe spot to pull over away from traffic and cover your head until it's over.

If you're inside, do not go running to a doorway. This is an old wives' tale that is still believed to be true by many. People assume the door frame is the sturdiest part of the house, which isn't necessarily true. Your best option is still to get under a sturdy desk or table.

Also, if you're already inside, do not go running outside. Outside is not necessarily safer than being inside. You can be hit with falling glass or power lines.

Do not take out your cell phone and start recording for social media. Instead, stay aware of what may be falling around you. Make safety your priority, not social media updates.

Have your kit, know your emergency plan, and practice that plan with your family. By preparing and understanding the risks, you can keep yourself and your family safe when an earthquake happens in Las Vegas.

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