Earthquakes can strike without warning, making preparation and quick thinking critical to staying safe. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), over 20,000 earthquakes occur globally each year, with regions like California, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest at higher risk in the U.S. Knowing what to do and what to avoid during an earthquake can mean the difference between life and death. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross provide clear, evidence-based guidelines to help individuals protect themselves when the ground shakes.
The cornerstone of earthquake safety is the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique. If shaking begins, drop to your hands and knees to avoid falling, cover your head and neck under a sturdy piece of furniture like a table, and hold on until the shaking stops. “This simple action significantly reduces your risk of injury from falling objects,” said Dr. Lucy Jones, a seismologist with the USGS. If no sturdy furniture is available, cover your head with your arms and seek an interior wall away from windows. For those in wheelchairs, FEMA advises locking the wheels, bending over, and covering the head and neck with hands or a pillow.
Staying calm and avoiding certain actions is equally important. Never run outside during an earthquake, as falling debris, glass, or power lines pose significant dangers. “People injured outside are often hit by collapsing structures or objects,” Jones noted. Elevators should be avoided, as they can malfunction, trapping occupants. If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and utility poles. For those driving, pull over to a clear spot, stop the car, and remain inside until the shaking ceases.
Preparation before an earthquake is vital. Secure heavy items like bookshelves, mirrors, and water heaters to walls to prevent them from toppling. Create an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit, enough for at least 72 hours. “Having a plan and supplies ready can make a huge difference,” said American Red Cross spokesperson Sarah Thompson. Identify safe spots in every room, such as under sturdy furniture or against interior walls, and practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills with family or coworkers.
Key earthquake safety tips include:
- Indoors: Drop, cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on; avoid windows and heavy objects.
- Outdoors: Move to open spaces away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
- Post-Earthquake: Check for injuries, avoid damaged areas, and be ready for aftershocks.
After the shaking stops, exit buildings only if safe, avoiding areas with visible structural damage. Be cautious of gas leaks, fires, or downed power lines, and turn off gas valves if a leak is suspected. If trapped under debris, cover your mouth and tap on a pipe or wall to signal for help rather than shouting, which can lead to inhaling dust. “Conserve energy and stay calm to increase your chances of rescue,” Thompson advised.
For coastal residents, earthquakes can trigger tsunamis. If you feel strong shaking or receive a tsunami warning, move to higher ground immediately, at least 100 feet above sea level or two miles inland. The National Earthquake Information Center emphasizes checking local building codes, as retrofitting homes to withstand quakes can prevent collapse. Avoid returning home until authorities confirm it’s safe, as aftershocks can cause further damage.
Earthquake-prone areas should have a communication plan, designating an out-of-state contact to coordinate family updates, as local phone lines may be overwhelmed. FEMA’s Ready.gov offers resources to create tailored emergency plans, including for pets and individuals with disabilities. Preparation is about empowerment, Jones said, urging communities to stay informed through apps like USGS Earthquake Alerts. By following these life-saving tips dropping, covering, and holding on while avoiding risky actions individuals can better protect themselves when the earth shakes unexpectedly.
