An earthquake can happen at any time. Try to set up your home and workplace so that you can quickly and easily take cover.

In the event of an earthquake:

1. Drop to the floor.


Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture or next to an interior wall. Cover your head and neck with your arms.

Hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture and be prepared to move with it. Stay where you are until the shaking stops.

Be Prepared For After Shocks

At home or work: Take cover and avoid heavy furniture, appliances, windows, and shelves with heavy objects that might fall over. If you are in bed, cover yourself and stay there until the shaking stops. Parents, resist the urge to run to your children. Wait until the immediate danger is over and then go to them. You will not be able to help them if you are injured yourself.

Outside: If you are on the sidewalk near a building, duck into a doorway to protect yourself from falling objects. If possible, move to a clear area away from trees, signs buildings, electrical wires and poles.

In your car: Carefully pull over to the side of the road and stop. Be sure you are clear of overpasses, bridges, and power lines. Stay inside your car until the shaking stops.

In a high rise: Drop, Cover and Hold. Stay away from windows. Do not use the elevators.

In a stadium or theater: Stay in your seat, get below the level of the back of the seat, and cover your head and neck with your arms.

In a shop or other public place: Stay calm. Move away from shelves with objects that might fall. Do not rush for the door.