Helpful Tips
Drop down to the floor, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. Remember: Avoid danger spots near windows, hanging objects, mirrors, or tall furniture. If you take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, hold on to it and be prepared to move with it. Hold the position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.
When in a :
- High-Rise Building: Move against an interior wall if you are not near a desk or table. Protect your head and neck with your arms. Do not use elevators.
- Crowded Store or other Public Place: Move away from display shelves containing objects that could fall. Do not rush for the exit.
- Stadium or Theater: Get below the level of the back of your seat and cover your head and neck with your arms.
When:
- On a Sidewalk Near Buildings: Duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling bricks, glass, plaster, and other debris.
- Driving: Pull over to the side of the road and stop. Avoid overpasses and power lines. Stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops.
Practice
Know how to protect yourself and your family during an earthquake, no matter where you are. Practice taking cover as if there were an earthquake and learn the safest places in your home and work. Practice getting out of your home and check to see if the planned exits are clear and if they can become blocked during an earthquake. Practice turning off your electricity and water. Know how to turn off the gas, but do not practice this step. In the event of an earthquake, once you turn off your gas, have only your utility company turn it back on for safety reasons.