WHAT TO DO DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

When an earthquake strikes, trying to figure out what to do to stay safe can be overwhelming, and
scrambling to come up with what to do during it may be dangerous.  

Ensure you know what to do during an earthquake before it occurs.

 To reduce your chances of being hurt, take the following actions:

Safety tips during an earthquake

 Drop down to your knees. This way, the earthquake cannot knock you over.
 Take cover. Cover your head and neck with your arms or an object to protect you from debris or
furniture falling during the earthquake. If possible, go to a wall near the center of the building or
house you are in, take cover in a doorway, or crawl under a heavy piece of furniture, such as a desk
or table.
 Hold on. Hold on to it tightly if you have anything sturdy near your safe spot until the shaking stops.
 If you are outside, get away from anything that could fall on you, such as trees, power lines,
buildings, or other debris.
 If you are in a car, pull over to a spot away from trees, power lines, and buildings. Wait in the car
until the shaking stops.
 If you are in a wheelchair, you should lock your wheels and bend over while covering your head.
 If possible, within the few seconds before shaking intensifies, quickly move away from glass,
hanging objects, bookcases, china cabinets, or other large furniture that could fall. Watch for falling
objects, such as bricks from fireplaces and chimneys, light fixtures, wall hangings, high shelves, and
cabinets with doors that could swing open.
 If available nearby, grab something to shield your head and face from falling debris and broken
glass.
 If you are in the kitchen, quickly turn off the stove and take cover at the first sign of shaking.
 If you are in bed, hold on and stay there, protecting your head with a pillow. You are less likely to be
injured staying where you are. Broken glass on the floor can cause injuries if you walk or roll onto
the floor.
 DO NOT stand in a doorway. You are safer under a table. In modern houses, doorways are no
stronger than any other part of the house. Doorways do not protect you from the most likely source
of injury − falling or flying objects. Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths are caused by falling
or flying objects (such as TVs, lamps, glass, or bookcases), or by being knocked to the ground.

In general, it’s best to stay where you are until the earthquake is over. 

Do not run away or go outside, as that will only create more considerable risk for getting hit by a
flying object, crushed by debris, or falling over.
What to Do After an Earthquake

Safety tips after earthquake

Once an earthquake has ended, it’s time to recover.  

After the shaking has stopped, leave the building you are in and retreat to an open space away from
damaged areas. Check yourself and others for any injuries and provide first aid if needed

 Check for injuries. Render first aid. Do not move seriously injured victims unless they are in
immediate danger. Do not use the telephone immediately unless there is a serious injury, fire or
other emergency. Hunt for hazards.
 Check for other hazards and control them (fire, chemical spills, toxic fumes and possible
collapse).
 Check utilities (water, gas, electric). If there is damage, turn the utility off at the source.
 Check for other hazards and control them (fire, chemical spills, toxic fumes and possible
collapse).
 Check building for cracks and damage, including roof, and foundation.
 Check food and water supplies.
 Emergency water can be obtained from water heaters and melted ice cubes
 Do not use candles, matches, or open flames as a light source. Earthquakes often result in
broken gas lines, which are dangerous if mixed with open flames. That is why it is critical to
have battery-powered flashlights in your home and work. 
 Turn on the radio and listen for emergency broadcasts/announcements, news reports, and
instructions. Cooperate with public safety officials.
 Do not use your vehicle unless there is an emergency. Keep the streets clear for emergency
vehicles.
 If buildings are suspect, set up your shelter area away from damage.
 Work with your neighbors for a quicker recovery. Stay calm and lend a hand to others.
 Plan for evacuation in case events make this necessary. Leave written messages for other family
members or searchers.
 Use gloves, wear heavy shoes, and have adequate and appropriate clothing available.
 Be prepared for aftershocks! Aftershocks can occur minutes, days, or months after an
earthquake. Drop, Cover, and Hold on each time shaking occurs.
 If trapped in a location, use whatever communication you have to draw attention to yourself. 

 Whether that is a cell phone that still has service, a whistle, or tapping on a wall, you will
want to do whatever you can to alert rescuers of your situation