Earthquake Preparedness for Victoria & the West Coast: How to Stay Safe

Living on the West Coast of British Columbia, including Victoria, BC, means enjoying ocean views, mild weather, and coastal beauty — but it also means living in one of Canada’s most seismically active regions. Scientists agree that Vancouver Island and the coastal areas of BC sit along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line capable of producing major earthquakes.That’s why it’s essential for every household, school, business, and driver in BC to know how to prepare for an earthquake, what to do when one happens, and how to build an emergency grab-and-go kit.Below is your complete guide to earthquake preparedness for Victoria and Vancouver Island residents — with practical tips, best safety practices, and a full list of 40 essential emergency kit items.

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1. Understanding Earthquake Risk in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is part of the Cascadia Subduction Zone, an area where two tectonic plates meet — the Juan de Fuca Plate and the North American Plate. Small tremors happen often, and seismologists warn that a major “megathrust” earthquake could strike anytime in the future.That’s why earthquake readiness in Victoria and coastal BC communities such as Nanaimo, Duncan, Port Alberni, and Tofino isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

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2. Before an Earthquake: Prepare Your Home, School, and Workplace

Preparation can prevent injuries and protect property. Here’s how to prepare in advance:

At Home

• Secure heavy furniture like bookshelves and wall units with brackets.
• Install latches on kitchen cabinets to keep dishes from flying out.
• Store breakable items on lower shelves.
• Know where to turn off gas, water, and electricity.
• Prepare an emergency plan and identify safe places to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”

At School or Work

• Participate in regular earthquake drills, such as the Great BC ShakeOut.
• Identify safe zones away from windows or tall objects.
• Keep first-aid kits and flashlights in classrooms or offices.

In Your Vehicle

• Keep an earthquake emergency kit in your trunk.
• Learn alternative routes in case roads or bridges are damaged.
• Have a plan for family reunification if you’re separated during an event.

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3. During an Earthquake: Drop, Cover, and Hold On

When the ground starts shaking, your instinct might be to run — but experts say staying put and protecting yourself is safest.

If You’re Indoors

• DROP to your hands and knees before the shaking knocks you down.
• COVER your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk.
• HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops.
• Stay away from windows, mirrors, fireplaces, and tall furniture.
• Do not run outside during the shaking — falling debris is the greatest danger.

If You’re Outdoors

• Move to a clear area, away from power lines, trees, and buildings.
• Stay low and protect your head and neck.

If You’re in a Vehicle

• Pull over to the side of the road, away from overpasses and bridges.
• Stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops.
• Be cautious when driving afterward — roads may be cracked or blocked.

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4. After an Earthquake: Stay Safe and Informed

The minutes and hours after an earthquake are critical. Here’s what to do:

• Expect aftershocks — they can be strong.
• Check yourself and others for injuries.
• Turn off gas or power only if you suspect damage or smell gas.
• Avoid using open flames (candles or matches) until you’re sure there’s no leak.
• Use a battery-powered or crank radio to stay informed via BC Emergency Alerts.
• If you’re near the coast, move to higher ground immediately in case of a tsunami warning.
• Check on neighbours, especially seniors or those living alone.

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5. Build Your BC Earthquake Emergency Grab-and-Go Bag

In Victoria and across Vancouver Island, emergency experts recommend every household have a 72-hour earthquake kitready to go. Keep one at home, one in your car, and one at work.

Here’s a checklist of 40 essential items to include:

Emergency Basics

1. Drinking water (at least 4L per person per day for 3 days)
2. Non-perishable food (energy bars, canned goods, dried fruit)
3. Manual can opener
4. First-aid kit
5. Flashlight and extra batteries
6. Whistle (to signal for help)
7. Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
8. Portable phone charger or power bank
9. Multi-tool or pocket knife
10. Dust masks (N95 or equivalent)

Personal Essentials

1. Prescription medications
2. Glasses or contact lens supplies
3. Important documents (ID, insurance, emergency contacts)
4. Cash in small bills
5. Personal hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)
6. Feminine hygiene products
7. Hand sanitizer and wipes
8. Face masks
9. Extra clothing and socks
10. Sturdy shoes or boots

Safety and Comfort

1. Blanket or sleeping bag
2. Foil emergency blanket
3. Rain poncho
4. Work gloves
5. Hat and warm clothing
6. Goggles or safety glasses
7. Plastic tarp
8. Duct tape
9. Rope or paracord
10. Waterproof matches or lighter

Family and Pet Supplies

1. Baby diapers, formula, wipes
2. Pet food, water, leash, and carrier
3. Comfort items (toy, book)
4. Notebook and pen
5. Emergency contact cards for each family member
6. Local maps of Victoria and Vancouver Island
7. Extra house and car keys
8. Folding shovel or toolkit
9. Spare face masks and sanitizer
10. Snacks like granola bars or nuts

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6. Best Practices for Earthquake Preparedness in BC

• Refresh your food and water supply every 6–12 months.
• Keep one emergency kit in your car, home, and office.
• Review your home insurance to ensure it includes earthquake coverage.
• Take part in the Great BC ShakeOut drill every October.
• Discuss evacuation routes with your family — including tsunami escape routes if you live near the coast.

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Be Ready, Not Scared

While the idea of a major earthquake can be unsettling, preparation is empowerment. By taking simple, practical steps today, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property tomorrow.Whether you live in Victoria, Saanich, Langford, or along Vancouver Island’s coastline, make earthquake preparedness a part of your safety plan. Keep calm, stay informed, and remember — being prepared saves lives.