These earthquake training resources are designed to help users obtain the knowledge, tools, and support that they need to plan and implement effective earthquake mitigation strategies.
National Earthquake Technical Assistance Program (NETAP)
The National Earthquake Technical Assistance Program (NETAP) is designed to help state, local, and tribal governments obtain the knowledge, tools, and support that they need to plan and implement effective earthquake mitigation strategies. Resources available through the program include instructor-led training courses, technical assistance, tool-development aid, and special-project support.
- NETAP Resource Guide for Earthquake Program Managers
- Training Schedules
- Background and Authorities
- Assistance Available through NETAP
- Obtaining Assistance through NETAP
- NETAP Training Courses and Associated Materials
- Contact Information
Publications
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) develops many Earthquake Publications Related to Training used by building designers, managers, regulators, and others for self-study and instruction in how to reduce the seismic vulnerability of new and existing buildings and their contents. In addition to print, online, and CD-based publications, these resources include presentation slides, course videos, and recorded webinars.
NEHRP Earthquake Coordinators Web Site
FEMA established the online Earthquake Coordinators Web Site as one of its contributions to the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP). This site is designed for self-paced, independent study by state or local officials or seismic-safety advocates who are new to earthquake risk-reduction concepts and programs. A series of lessons provides key information about earthquakes, seismic hazards, earthquake risk-assessment and risk-reduction tools and strategies, promotion of seismic safety through public advocacy and programs, and other topics. In addition to online instruction, the site provides printable lesson summaries, a printable glossary, and links to further information.
HAZUS Training
FEMA’s Hazards-United States (HAZUS) software is a powerful risk-assessment tool used to analyze potential losses from earthquakes, floods, and hurricane winds. HAZUS couples current scientific and engineering knowledge with the latest geographic information system (GIS) technology to produce estimates of damage, economic losses, and social impacts before or after a disaster occurs. States and communities use the HAZUS earthquake module for mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery planning.
FEMA offers various classroom-based HAZUS training courses through its Emergency Management Institute in Emmitsburg, MD. Online HAZUS courses are also available through a private-sector training partner. Visit HAZUS for further information about this important tool and related training opportunities.
Other FEMA Earthquake-Related Training
FEMA’s National Preparedness Directorate provides a large number and variety of training courses through its National Training and Education Division (NTED), Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP), and Emergency Management Institute (EMI). NTED and the CDP focus on training for first responders and other state and local government personnel involved in responding to natural and man-made disasters, including earthquakes.
In addition to courses about responding or preparing to respond to earthquakes and other disasters, the EMI also provides hazard mitigation training. Mitigation courses show states and localities how to assess and reduce risks posed by earthquakes and other natural hazards, and how to obtain grant support from FEMA for hazard mitigation activities. EMI training is offered through classroom-based courses provided by the EMI or by states, and through online independent study courses.
For more information on training offered through the EMI, NTED, and the CDP, go to the National Preparedness Directorate Online Course Catalog.