Learning How to Survive
Earthquakes
Practice
Drop, Cover, and Hold!
Whether you
are in your home, a classroom, or a tall
building, know how to protect yourself
during an earthquake. Teach yourself and
family members to react automatically when
the shaking starts.
When an
earthquake strikes:
-
DROP
— DROP down to the
floor.
-
COVER
— Take COVER under a
sturdy piece of furniture. If that is
not possible, seek COVER
against an interior wall and protect
your head and neck with your arms. Avoid
danger spots near windows, hanging
objects, mirrors, or tall furniture.
-
HOLD
— 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
Tips to
Protect Yourself During An Earthquake
-
If you’re in a
HIGH-RISE BUILDING, and you are
not near a desk or table, move against
an interior wall, and protect your head
with your arms. Do not use the
elevators.
-
If you’re
OUTDOORS, move to a clear area,
away from trees, signs, buildings, or
downed electrical wires and poles.
-
If you’re on a
SIDEWALK NEAR BUILDINGS, duck
into a doorway to protect yourself from
falling bricks, glass, plaster, and
other debris.
-
If you’re DRIVING,
pull over to the side of the road and
stop. Avoid overpasses, power lines, and
other hazards. Stay inside the vehicle
until the shaking is over.
-
If you’re in a
CROWDED STORE, do not rush for
exits. Move away from display shelves
containing objects that could fall.
-
If you’re in a
WHEELCHAIR, stay in it. Move to
cover, if possible, lock your wheels,
and protect your head with your arms.
-
If you’re in the
KITCHEN, move away from the
refrigerator, stove, and overhead
cupboards.
-
If you’re in a
STADIUM or THEATER, stay in
your seat and protect your head with
your arms. Do not try to leave until the
shaking is over. Then leave in a calm,
orderly manner.
Be prepared
for AFTERSHOCKS, and plan
where you will take cover when they occur.
Aftershocks can occur in the first hours,
days, weeks, or even months after the quake.
Be prepared to take cover.
