EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — With earthquakes continuing to shake Southern California in 2025, there are four basic steps you can take to be more prepared.

Here is what the Earthquake Country Alliance — a partner of the U.S. Geological Survey — recommends:

Secure your space by identifying hazards and securing moveable items. Start now by moving furniture such as bookcases away from beds, sofas, or other places where people sit, sleep or spend a lot of time.

Move heavy objects to lower shelves. Then, continue by securing things such as televisions, computers, bookcases, furniture and unstrapped water heaters.

Plan to be safe by creating a disaster plan and deciding how you will communicate in an emergency.

Make sure that your emergency plan includes evacuation and reunion plans, your out-of-state contact person’s name and number, the location of your emergency supplies and other pertinent information.

Have occasional earthquake “drills” to practice your plan, and share your plan with people who take care of your children, pets or home.

Organize disaster supplies in convenient locations. Everyone should have emergency supplies stored in accessible locations at home, at work and in vehicles.

Having supplies readily available can reduce the impact of an earthquake or other emergency on you and your family.

Minimize financial hardship by organizing important documents, strengthening your property and considering insurance. You may need to leave your house quickly after an earthquake.

To help you organize the most important information you will need, begin with designating a “grab-and-go” backpack or bag.

Consider what documents you will need if you are away from home for an extended time. Put all these important documents in a sealed plastic bag, and place it into your “grab-and-go” bag. Leave your bag somewhere you can get to easily.

These are recommended by the Earthquake Country Alliance, a partner of the USGS.