What to do during an earthquake
Published:
Most earthquake injuries happen because things fall — not because buildings collapse. That is why the advice is simple and can be learned in a minute.
During the shaking: Drop, cover, hold on
- Drop: Get down on hands and knees before the shaking knocks you over.
- Cover: Get under a sturdy table and protect your head and neck with your arms. If there is no table, stay away from windows, mirrors and tall furniture.
- Hold on: Hold on to the table and move with it until the shaking has completely stopped.
Do not run outside while it is shaking — falling facade bricks and glass make entrances the most dangerous spots. If you are already outside, find open ground away from buildings, poles and trees. If you are driving, pull over away from bridges and stay in the car.
After the shaking
- Expect aftershocks — they often come within minutes to days
- Check for gas smell and shut off the gas if possible
- Do not use elevators
- On the coast: move to higher ground if the quake was strong and long — it may trigger a tsunami
Prepare if you live where the ground shakes
If you live in or travel to seismically active areas, agree on a family meeting point, keep a torch, water and a first-aid kit ready, and secure tall shelves to the wall. On EarthquakeIndex's live map you can see where it is shaking right now — and, via the felt reports, how many people noticed it.