Unlike hurricanes or other natural hazards, earthquakes strike suddenly and without warning. Nevertheless, there are things that we can do to reduce the chances that those who attend or work at Mesa will be injured, or that school property will be damaged by an earthquake. These activities all fall under the concept of preparedness, because to be effective, they must be done before earthquakes occur.

Preparing for earthquakes involves learning what should be done before, during, and after earthquakes; and doing or preparing to do those things, before the next quake. School preparedness requires the participation of administrators, teachers, students, and parents.