Earthquake Preparedness Tips and Resources from EPA

In recognition of Earthquake Preparedness Month, EPA reminds water and wastewater utilities of the potential impacts they can experience as a result of these events and reminds them of resources to help prevent and reduce damages and facilitate a quicker recovery. To access these resources, EPA points to its “Earthquake Resilience for Water and Wastewater Utilities” webpage. There visitors can access Surviving the Quake, an animated video that shows the type of damage earthquakes can cause to utilities and shows how utility managers and community officials can take action to prepare, respond, and recover. Another resource, the Earthquake Interactive Maps, allow utilities to determine if they’re in an earthquake hazard area. The Maps also describe how some utilities around the country are implementing mitigation measures, such as a Utah utility that got funding to retrofit buildings and tanks and a California utility that strengthened a major water supply tunnel running through an active fault. Lastly, EPA’s Earthquake Resilience Guide provides information to help utilities understand the earthquake threat, identify vulnerable assets and determine consequences, and pursue mitigation and funding options. Access EPA’s “Earthquake Resilience for Water and Wastewater Utilities” webpage.