YMCA, EWEB launch free earthquake prep program in Eugene

The Eugene YMCA hosted an EWEB Pledge to Prepare informational session on Jan. 14, 2026, and attendees were given three-gallon water storage containers.

The YMCA of Eugene and the Eugene Water & Electric Board have teamed up on Pledge to Prepare, a free earthquake-readiness program for Lane County households building toward being 2 Weeks Ready one monthly step at a time. The campaign helps households get ready for natural or human-caused disasters in the Pacific Northwest, where severe emergencies can knock out electricity, water and other public services for weeks or even months. In Lane County, a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake remains one of the region’s most serious long-term threats.

Beth Casper, the YMCA’s chief strategy officer, said people can sign up at any time of year and spend the following year becoming more ready for an emergency. The program is built around a simple checklist each month, so participants can work through practical tasks tied to the disruptions most likely after a major quake, including power outages, weak cell service and no running water.

EWEB Emergency Management Specialist Jenny Demaris walks participants through the program and the state’s recommendation to be 2 Weeks Ready.

January programming also included staff from the American Red Cross and the Eugene Springfield Community Response Team.

After shaking stops, residents should check for injuries and hazards, including fires, gas leaks and downed utilities. If they are near the ocean, they should move to higher ground quickly because tsunami risk is part of the regional earthquake scenario. The last great Cascadia earthquake struck on Jan. 26, 1700, and OSU Extension Service warns a major offshore event could happen at any time.