Earthquake!

[Judah]

Stupid question, but one I haven't had to have the knowledge of, since we don't have earthquakes.

Are all buildings in California (including apartments, stores, etc) built in such a way that they're more resistant (possibly not totally so, but at least more than would be in non-earthquake states) to damage by an earthquake?  Are there reinforcements put in automatically when building a structure?

Yes, all buildings, including single family homes, have earthquake requirements that must be met. But building codes have evolved over time, so there are still some older buildings around that don't meet current code. And don't forget the bridges. There are lots of old bridges that still don't meet code.

[SoCalVal]

I didn't know about it until this morning when I got to work.  Had to ask a coworker what time it took place (I was in Davis at the time at an opera performance); didn't feel a thing.  I grew up with earthquakes in So Cal so that's normal for me, but DH grew up here and didn't feel anything (he would've commented if he had).

[MrTango]

Stupid question, but one I haven't had to have the knowledge of, since we don't have earthquakes.

Are all buildings in California (including apartments, stores, etc) built in such a way that they're more resistant (possibly not totally so, but at least more than would be in non-earthquake states) to damage by an earthquake?  Are there reinforcements put in automatically when building a structure?

I'm not a Californian, but I do know that there are technologies that can be incorporated in buildings to help it withstand the shock of an earthquake.  One example is incorporating bearings into the footings of a building so that the foundation can shake with the ground while the building above stays relatively steady.

Another requirement in residential construction is that water heaters (the style with a tank) have to be strapped to a sturdy part of the wall to prevent it from tipping over during a quake.