Earthquakes are a high risk hazard and very dangerous for older homes. So, it’s important that homeowners check that their homes can sustain a major earthquake. Learn more about the potential for earthquakes in the area.
What to look for
Homes built before 1985 are more vulnerable to earthquake damage. Most homes built after 1985 were designed to conform to stricter building codes. These are probably equipped to resist the force of an earthquake. If your home is not built on a concrete slab or has a crawl space, chances are it’s built on a raised foundation. The supporting structure under a house with a raised foundation may not have been built to resist earthquakes. It could be subject to structural failure.
Homes built on a hillside often have raised foundations. These homes tend to have more severe failures. Why? The structural framing that supports the house is built at different heights.
Garage doors opening create vulnerable areas in a house. The narrow walls on either side of the garage door must be designed to resist earthquakes. This is important if there is a living space above the garage because of the added weight. Consult a licensed structural engineer if you have living space above a garage and your home was built before 1985.
Classes
The Kitsap Department of Emergency Management (KCDEM) holds public programs on home retrofits. See our calendar for details on Bolt It, Brace It, Do it!
KCDEM News
1/15/2022 – Tsunami advisory cancelled for Washington state
The tsunami advisory for the Washington and Oregon coasts is cancelled. No tsunami danger exists for the area. To repeat, the tsunami advisory is cancelled. Again, there is no tsunami danger for Washington state. If [...]
01/15/22 Tsunami advisory issued for the coast. Impact to inner coastal waters possible.
UPDATE: Kitsap County Emergency Management continues to monitor this tsunami advisory to the outer coast counties of Washington and is participating in hourly calls with State Emergency Management. (An advisory means "Stay away from shore.") [...]
Severe Weather Shelters Open January 7, 2022
Due to anticipated freezing weather conditions, four Kitsap County Severe Weather Shelters are open Friday, January 7. Additionally, special measures are being taken at the shelters to prevent the spread of viruses, including COVID-19.Hours of [...]
Events
Helpful Links
Helpful Links
- Homeowners Guide to Earthquakes (source: State of Washington Department of Natural Resources)
- Defensible Space – Prepare Your Home (source: State Dept of Natural Resources)
