What can I do at home?

Landslides are a natural process that continuously shapes the landscape, and it occurs without human involvement; however, it's important for us to recognize that our decision, such as where we build our roads and structures, and the ways in which we alter natural landscapes can affect this process and sometimes trigger a landslide event.

Although the physical cause of many landslides cannot be removed, becoming familiar with the land around you, purchasing earthquake insurance, conducting a detailed site analysis, installing appropriate structures, and planting ground cover on slopes can reduce a landslide's effects. Homeowners can also support their local government's efforts to design and enforce stricter buildings codes that would regulate homes away from landslide prone areas.

Become familiar with the land around you. Learn whether debris flows have occurred in your area by contacting local officials, State geological surveys or departments of natural resources, and university departments of geology. Slopes where debris flows have occurred in the past are likely to experience them in the future..

Watch the patterns of storm-water drainage on slopes near your home, and note especially the places where runoff water converges, increasing flow over soil-covered slopes. Watch the hillsides around your home for any signs of land movement, such as small landslides or debris flows or progressively tilting trees.

Purchase earthquake insurance. Homeowner's insurance does NOT cover losses due to landslide.

Conduct a detailed site analysis. Private consulting companies may be hired to produce a landslide vulnerability map for your home, as well as to recommend mitigative practices.

Install and maintain structures. Proper engineering, site selection, installation, and maintenance of structures (e.g., gabions) to improve drainage conditions and increase slope stability can assist in mitigating the effects of a landslide. Remember: If you build walls to divert debris flow and the flow lands on a neighbor's property, you may be liable for damages.

Plant ground cover on slopes. The roots of plants can help secure dirt to the slope.

Support your local government in efforts to develop and enforce land-use and building ordinances that regulate construction in areas susceptible to landslides and debris flows. Buildings should be located away from steep slopes, streams and rivers, intermittent-stream channels, and the mouths of mountain channels.