What to Do During an Earthquake
Essential safety steps to protect yourself and your family during an earthquake. Learn the Drop, Cover, Hold On technique.
Drop, Cover, and Hold On
The internationally recommended response during an earthquake is to Drop, Cover, and Hold On. This technique has been proven to reduce injuries and save lives.
- •DROP to your hands and knees. This position prevents you from being knocked down and allows you to crawl to shelter.
- •Take COVER under a sturdy desk, table, or other furniture. If no furniture is available, cover your head and neck with your arms and crouch next to an interior wall.
- •HOLD ON to your shelter until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with it if it shifts.
If You're Indoors
Stay inside. Most injuries occur when people try to move to a different location or run outside during shaking.
- •Stay away from windows, outside walls, and anything that could fall (bookshelves, mirrors, light fixtures).
- •Do not use elevators — use stairs only after the shaking stops.
- •If in bed, stay there and protect your head with a pillow.
- •If in a wheelchair, lock the wheels and cover your head.
If You're Outdoors
Move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
- •Stay in the open until the shaking stops.
- •The greatest danger from falling debris is just outside doorways and close to buildings.
- •If near a coastline, move to higher ground immediately — a tsunami may follow.
If You're Driving
Pull over to the side of the road and stop. Set your parking brake.
- •Avoid stopping under overpasses, bridges, power lines, or signs.
- •Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
- •After the earthquake, proceed with caution and avoid bridges or ramps that may have been damaged.