It is vital that we know what to do to stay safe in the event of an earthquake. In most cases, you can stay safe with the “Drop-Cover-Hold On” gesture.
Drop-Cover-Hold On
DROP on your hands and knees before you hit the ground in an earthquake. With this position, you are protected from falling. It allows you to move if necessary.
You can do the COVER movement by putting your head and neck under a solid table. If there is no shelter nearby, bend over to a sturdy piece of furniture that won't fall on you and cover your head with your arms and hands.
Hold your solid desk under it until the shaking stops. At the same time, try to stay still by holding your neck and head. Get ready for action together when your desk moves with the jolt.
If You're Inside, Stay Inside
Do not run outside during an earthquake. Do not try to change the room you are in. Do not stand on doorsteps. You would be safer under a table. Door entrances do not protect you from falling objects in an earthquake. Most deaths or injuries during earthquakes are caused by hitting the ground or falling objects.
If you're in a multi-story building, do the DROP-COVER-HOLD ON motion. Stay away from windows and exterior walls. Stay inside the building. Do not use the elevator. When you are stuck inside the building, try to attract the attention of those around you by hitting steel-like hard structures.
Showcase with falling objects etc. stay away from places. Do not try to run to the doors. If you're outside, stay outside. Keep away from electrical wiring, gas lines, and exterior walls of buildings.
If you are in a moving vehicle, stop in a safe place as soon as possible. Tow your vehicle away from underpasses overpasses and power poles.
