In this article
Identify the dangers of housing, fix heavy objects and practice protective gestures before a jolt.
Understand the risk and its consequences
Magnitude describes an earthquake; it is not enough to predict its consequences at an address. Distance, depth, floor, building and objects that can fall also play a role. A preliminary estimate of the exposed population does not correspond to a death toll.
In Quebec, the preparation is based on the development of housing and known gestures: to lower, shelter and grip. It is also necessary to anticipate the needs of the home after a service interruption and prepare for aftershocks.
Key lessons for households and communities
Lesson 1: Earthquakes occur without warning
It is not possible to reliably predict the day and time of an earthquake. However, the early warning system detects an earthquake that has already started and can provide a few seconds’ notice before strong tremors. This time frame is not guaranteed and does not replace protective gestures.
Lesson 2: Magnitude is not the only risk factor
An earthquake of 5.5 may seem moderate, but the depth, distance from the epicenter and quality of the constructions strongly influence the damage. Densely populated or poorly built areas suffer disproportionate impacts.
Lesson 3: Preparation Saves Lives
Communities with emergency plans and trained citizens experience fewer injuries and faster recovery. In Quebec, even in less exposed regions, this preparation creates a beneficial overall resilience.
Remember: protect yourself during the shaking, then assess the dangers and instructions. The early earthquake warning does not predict earthquakes and does not guarantee advance notice to every person.
Reflexes to adopt
- During shaking, lower yourself, shelter under a solid piece of furniture if you can do it quickly and hold on until the movements stop. Protect head and neck. Don’t look for a wall that’s supposed to carry it, and don’t run outside.
- Avoid dangerous places. Stay away from windows, mirrors, hanging fixtures and unstable structures. Outdoors, stay away from buildings, power lines and walls that could collapse.
- After shaking, avoid damaged areas. In the event of a gas smell, move away without switching or creating a flame and contact the emergency room or distributor from a safe location. Do not improvise a return to service.
- To reassure your loved ones, give a brief message and the means provided in your plan. 911 is reserved for emergencies; it is not used to announce that you are safe. Avoid publishing your precise location if it is not necessary.
- Know the family rallying points. Establish pre-defined meeting places in case communication is impossible and family members are in different locations during an earthquake.
Prepare now
Concrete actions:
- Secure heavy furniture (bookcases, televisions and cabinets) to the walls with appropriate brackets to prevent tipping.
- Prepare a kit of at least 72 hours with potable water adapted to the home, usable food, lighting, radio and personal needs. For water, count 6 liters per person to drink and 6 liters extra for food and hygiene over three days, plus the needs of the animals.
- Locate emergency exits in your home and train your family to safety positions (“Drop, Cover, Hold On”).
- Document your property inventory, photograph your home to facilitate insurance claims, and verify that your home coverage is up to date.
Frequently asked questions
Is Quebec Really Exposed to Earthquakes?
The risk is not uniform across the province. Consult Earthquakes Canada information and local guidelines rather than qualifying all of Quebec by a single level. The condition of the building and the unfixed objects also influence the consequences.
Where can I find official resources in Quebec?
Consult the official guides of Quebec and Earthquakes Canada. Ask the municipality for public information on local risks and instructions; pre-hospital service does not replace this planning.
How to prepare children and the elderly?
Practice regularly the “Drop, Cover, Hold On” exercises with your children in a fun way. For the elderly or people with reduced mobility, identify nearby safe areas and make it easier to access a phone and an emergency kit. Set up a quick verification system after an event.
Resilience to earthquakes begins with information and preparation. By implementing a few simple measures today, we are strengthening our ability to protect our loved ones and to recover quickly in the event of an event. Quebec has shown its ability to mobilize in the face of emergencies; let’s be proactive and prepared.
Sources and Updates
Document verification: November 3, 2026. The official instructions in force in your area take precedence in real situations.