What to Do During an Earthquake

Earthquakes give no warning, and you may have only seconds to react. The proven response is Drop, Cover, and Hold On: drop to your hands and knees, get under a sturdy desk or table, cover your head and neck, and hold on to the furniture until the shaking stops. If there is nothing to hide under, crouch next to an interior wall and protect your head with your arms.

Do not run outside during shaking — falling debris is the biggest danger. Do not stand in doorways (a modern myth) and do not try to use elevators. After the shaking stops, expect aftershocks and move cautiously. Check for gas leaks by smell, avoid damaged structures, and listen to official emergency channels. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, secure heavy furniture to walls and keep shoes near your bed — broken glass is everywhere after a quake.