Keeping Your Family Safe During an Earthquake

An average of 10,000 people die each year as a result of earthquakes. Estimates indicate that between 800,000 to more than one million earthquakes occur each year, but many are so small in magnitude that they go unnoticed. Earthquakes of magnitude greater than 8.0 occur, on average, every eight to 10 years—and these stronger earthquakes are capable of producing mass destruction.

Image via serc.carlton.edu

Massive earthquakes in recent years have drawn attention to the need to be prepared for this type of natural disaster. The 2010 quake in the Haiti region, for instance, claimed the lives of more than 315,000 people. Another 300,000 were injured and 1.3 million people displaced from their homes.

It’s not just the earthquake itself that causes devastating damage. In 2004, an earthquake in the Indian Ocean created a tsunami that struck the coast of Indonesia, leading to more than 230,000 deaths spanning 14 countries along the coast of the Indian Ocean. The hardest-hit areas were Indonesia, Thailand, Sri-Lanka and India. This earthquake was the third-largest earthquake ever recorded on a seismograph, at a magnitude of 9.1 to 9.3 Mw. Landslides are another side effect of earthquakes capable of mass destruction.

Earthquake California

Image via earthquake.usgs.gov

In the United States, earthquakes are most likely to occur in Alaska and California. However, all fifty states and five U.S. territories are susceptible to earthquakes, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Because earthquakes may strike at anytime, anywhere, there are a few general safety tips to follow before and during an earthquake:

  • Have an earthquake readiness plan.

    • Store a type-ABC fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location.

    • Keep several flashlights in easily accessible places around the house.

    • Keep a wrench or turn-off tool in waterproof wrap near the gas meter.

    • Know the location of your main electrical switch, fuse box, or circuit breaker.

    • Have your emergency plan accessible and discuss with all family members.

    • Know whether you live, work, or play in a tsunami hazard zone.

    • Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio with the Public Alert feature to notify you of tsunamis and other hazards.

    • Keep flashlight, slippers, and gloves next to beds.

    • Keep your gas tank at least half full.

  • Learn how to make your home sturdier. You may want to contract a contractor to be sure your home is bolted to its foundation. You should also bolt bookcases and larger pieces of furniture, such as hutches, to wall studs. Another step to consider is securing your water heater so that it cannot topple over and possibly break gas or water lines in your home.

  • Determine safe spaces in each room of your home, away from windows, to go to in case of an earthquake. Choose spots where it is unlikely something will fall on you.

  • Prepare a disaster kit. Stock up on canned food, a first-aid kit, 3 gallons of water per person, dust masks and goggles, and a battery-operated radio and flashlights.

    • Keep an emergency backpack with copies of important documents near the door to grab and go.

    • Store the emergency food and water supplies in a dry, accessible area. Remember to also include extra cash, extra batteries, medication, and other necessary supplies.

  • Learn how to turn off your gas and water mains.

Image via edu4hazards.org

If Shaking Begins:

  • Drop down and take cover under a desk or table. Be prepared to hold on until the shaking stops.

  • Stay inside until the shaking stops and it is safe to exit.

  • Stay away from bookcases and other furniture that can fall on you.

  • Stay away from windows and light fixtures.

  • If you are in bed, stay where you are and cover your head with a pillow to protect yourself from falling objects.

  • If you are outside, drop to the ground in a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines.

  • If you are in a car, slow down and drive to a clear space. Stay in the car until the shaking stops.

While you never can completely guarantee that your family and home will be absolutely safe during an earthquake, there are ways to prepare before an earthquake occurs. The earthquake data for 2012 shows that worldwide there were more than 95 damaging earthquakes that resulted in approximately 700 fatalities and 6,000 injuries.

Image via OptimisticYogi.wordpress.com

And, because earthquakes are nearly impossible to predict and therefore most often occur without any warning, people must prepare ahead of time in order to survive. According to FEMA, earthquake preparation involves learning what to do before, during, and after an earthquake and doing or preparing those things now, before an earthquake occurs.

Before an Earthquake

FEMA advises that you prepare three things before the next earthquake: your home, your family, and your community.

Prepare Your Home

The most important thing you can do to prepare your home is to make it more resistant to earthquake damage by assessing its structure and contents. Structurally, you should be wary of a home that is not anchored to its foundation, has weak crawl space walls, has unbraced pier-and-post foundations, or has masonry walls or foundations that are not reinforced. You may fix any weaknesses that you find, or you might want to seek professional help. If you rent, you should ask your landlord how the home has been strengthened to guard against earthquakes.

As for your home’s contents, you want to secure all objects that could move, break, or fall as a result of an earthquake. You should examine each room of your home for such objects and secure items like tall, heavy furniture (bookcases, dressers, etc.), electronics, appliances (including water heaters), and anything hanging from walls or ceilings. Remember, light fixtures may fall easily during an earthquake. You then should secure all of these items with flexible fasteners or with closed hooks or relocate them away from beds to lower shelves or cabinets with latched doors.

Image via Stanford.edu

Ready.gov and Earthquake Country, a service of the Southern California Earthquake Center, offer more specific checklists for homeowners in the event of an earthquake. Again, these are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your property if an earthquake should hit.

  • Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.

  • Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

  • Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with latches.

  • Securely fasten heavy items such as picture and mirrors and away from beds and seating areas

  • Repair defective electrical wiring and leaky gas connections, or get the appropriate professionals to help

  • Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas and water leaks

  • Secure your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances by strapping them to wall studs or bolt them to the floor. You may want to have an automatic gas shut-off valve installed that is triggered by strong vibrations, if recommended by your gas company.

  • Repair deep cracks in ceilings and foundations; get expert advice if you think there are structural defects

  • Be sure the home is firmly anchored to its foundation.

  • Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with latches on the bottom shelves.

  • Locate safe spots in each room under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Move to these places during each drill.

  • Periodically hold earthquake drills with your family. Remember to drop, cover, and hold on.

  • Hang plants in lightweight pots with closed hooks, well secured to a joist or wall stud and far away from windows.

  • Install strong latches on kitchen cabinets.

  • Remove or lock refrigerator wheels.

  • Secure free-standing woodstoves or fireplace inserts.

  • Keep heavy, unstable objects away from doors and exit routes.

  • Secure knickknacks and other small valuables with museum putty.

  • Trim hazardous tree limbs.

  • Reinforce brick chimneys.

Prepare Yourself and Your Family

Be sure that each member of your family knows what to do during an earthquake. As with any other potential harm to your family, it is crucial that you communicate about earthquakes and earthquake safety. Additionally, you should have drills with your family to practice what you’ve learned about earthquake safety. These drills should include the specific steps for Drop, Cover, and Hold On!

Image via pubs.usgs.gov

Another way to prepare prior to an earthquake is to keep a current emergency supply kit in your home and to make sure that all family members know its location. The kit should include one or two portable containers, such as plastic tubs or book bags, holding the supplies your family would need to survive without outside aid for at least three days following the earthquake.

Remember, basic services like electricity, gas, water, sewer, and telephone may be out for days, so your kit should contain items to help you manage those circumstances. You should also make additional, smaller kits to keep in your car and your place of work. Your emergency supply kit should also contain the addresses, phone numbers, and evacuation sites for all of the places in which your family members spend time, including schools, workplaces, etc. It is also recommended that your family members carry a copy of this list, or contact card, in their wallets, purses, briefcases, backpacks, or book bags.

You may also have to care for the people, pets, and property associated with your family during an earthquake. To be prepared for that moment, you should be trained in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); you may contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross to become certified.

You should also look into where you could shelter your family pets if you should have to evacuate. Finally, you should make sure that all of your family members know when and how to contact 9-1-1, how to use the fire extinguisher, and how to shut off your home’s utilities. Some insurance companies offer earthquake insurance, so you may want to consider asking your state insurance commissioner about the availability of earthquake insurance in your area.

Prepare Your Community

Because your community will have to work together after an earthquake hits, you should become involved in your local volunteer programs that work toward your community’s disaster resilience efforts. There may be opportunities available through the American Red Cross and FEMA’s Citizen Corps and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs.

During an Earthquake

Exterior walls, building facades, and architectural details are often the first parts of a building to collapse. Because of this danger zone, if an earthquake hits while you are inside, stay inside and if it hits while you are outside, stay outside. Studies have shown that injuries and deaths caused by earthquakes over the last several decades are most often caused by falling or flying objects, such as TVs, lamps, glass, bookcases, etc. and not by the collapsed building.

Image via DocStoc.com, Public Domain via FEMA, nehrp

The tips for keeping your family safe while the earthquake occurs are better split into the two categories: inside and outside.

If you are indoors when the earthquake hits:

  • If you are just inside, drop, cover, and hold on – Drop to the floor on your hands and knees so the earthquake cannot knock you down, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on to it firmly. It may move while the shaking continues; you need to be prepared to move with it. If you are not near a desk or a table, move against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid dropping to a location that is underneath hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances, and kitchen cabinets with heavy objects and/or glass. The main goal of Drop, Cover, and Hold On is to “protect you from falling and flying debris and other nonstructural hazards, and to increase the chance of your ending up in a Survivable Void Space if the building actually collapses. The space under a sturdy table or desk is likely to remain even if the building collapses – pictures from around the world show tables and desks standing with rubble all around them, and even holding up floors that have collapsed.

  • If you are in bed – Hold on and stay there. Protect your head with a pillow. You must stay where you are because broken glass has injured people trying to get to the doorways.

  • If you are in a wheelchair – Lock the wheels once you are in a safe position. If you are unable to move quickly, stay where you are and cover your head and neck with your arms.

  • If you are inside a high-rise – Drop, cover, and hold on. Avoid windows and other potential hazards. Do not use elevators, and be prepared for sprinkler systems and fire alarms to activate.

Image via whologwhy on Flickr

If you are outdoors when the earthquake hits:

  • If you are driving – Pull over, stop, and set your parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, and power lines, trees, signs, buildings, vehicles, and other things that may fall on your car.

  • If you are in a stadium or theater – Stay at your seat and protect your head and neck with your arms. Don’t try to leave until the shaking has stopped. Then, walk out slowly watching for anything that could fall during aftershocks.

  • If you are below a dam – Know the flood-zone information and have a prepared evacuation plan. Dams can fail during major earthquakes.

Experts and rescuers also recommend what you and your family should not do during an earthquake. During an earthquake,

  • Do NOT run outside or to other rooms during the shaking.

  • Do NOT stand in a doorway.

  • Do NOT get in the “triangle of life” (getting next to a table rather than under it).

After an Earthquake

One of the most important things to keep in mind about the time after an earthquake is there could be aftershocks. If these occur, revert to the “During an Earthquake” tips and checklists until they are over.

Image via all-geo.org

Ready.gov also recommends the following checklist for people to follow once the shaking stops.

  • Look around to be sure it is safe to move, and then exit the building.

  • Help injured or trapped people. Remember to help neighbors who may require special assistance, including infants, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Give first aid as appropriate. Do not move seriously injured people unless they are in immediate danger of sustaining more injuries. Call for help.

  • Look for and extinguish small fires. Fire is the most common hazard after an earthquake.

  • Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for the most recent emergency information.

  • Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in a coastal area. If a tsunami warning is issued, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on its way. Stay away from the beach.

  • Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

  • Go to a designated shelter if your home is no longer safe. You may text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area.

  • Stay away from damaged areas. Stay away unless your assistance specifically has been requested by police, fire, or relief organizations. Return home only when the authorities say it is safe.

  • Be careful driving after an earthquake and anticipate light outages.

  • Cautiously open cabinets. Beware of objects that could fall off shelves.

  • Visit http://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/emergency/index.html to find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency.

  • Put on long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy shoes, and work gloves to protect against broken objects.

  • Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately. Leave the area if you smell gas or fumes from chemicals.

  • Inspect the length of your chimney for damage. Damage that is undetected could lead to a fire.

  • Inspect your utilities.

    • Check for gas leaks.

    • Look for electrical system damage.

    • Check for sewage and water lines damage.

Another possible outcome in the aftermath of an earthquake is being ordered to evacuate a damaged area. Planning and practicing for evacuation will allow you to better prepare to respond appropriately and efficiently to signs of danger or to directions from authorities. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers the following recommendations for evacuation plans:

  • Take some time to discuss evacuation with your family. Sketch a floor plan of your home; walk through each room and discuss evacuation details.

  • Plan a second way to exit each room or area. If special equipment is needed, mark where it is located.

  • Mark where your emergency food, water, first aid kids, and fire extinguishers are located.

  • Mark where the utility switches or valves are located so that they can be turned off, if possible.

  • Indicate the location of your family’s emergency outdoor meeting place.

Image via RedCross.org

Finally, people in all communities can prepare their families and themselves for an earthquake by participating in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills that occur a few times each year. This provides an organized opportunity for families, schools, organizations, and individuals to practice how to protect ourselves and how to become prepared for the next earthquake.

Continue reading here: Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement: Where to Place CO Alarms in Your Home

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Readers' Questions

  • tom
    What actions can you take before or during an earthquake to reduce your chances of being hurt?
    6 months ago
  • Before an earthquake: 1. Create an emergency plan: Develop a family emergency plan that includes a communication strategy and a designated meeting place. Make sure all family members are aware of the plan. 2. Secure heavy objects: Anchor heavy furniture or appliances to the walls or floor using straps, bolts, or brackets. This will prevent them from toppling over during the shaking. 3. Identify safe spots: Identify safe places in each room, such as under sturdy tables or desks, away from windows, mirrors, or heavy furniture that could potentially fall. 4. Prepare an emergency kit: Put together an emergency supply kit that includes essential items like non-perishable food, water, flashlight, first aid supplies, and batteries. Keep it easily accessible. 5. Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On": Learn the official recommended technique for earthquake safety. When shaking starts, drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops. During an earthquake:
    1. Stay indoors: If you are inside a building, stay there. Do not run outside as falling debris or collapsing buildings pose significant risks.
    2. Take cover: Get under a sturdy piece of furniture and protect your head and neck with your arms. If there is no furniture available to take cover under, crouch against an interior wall and cover your head.
    3. Stay away from windows: Avoid standing near windows, glass, or any potentially dangerous objects that could shatter or cause injuries.
    4. Beware of falling objects: Watch out for objects, furniture, or fixtures that may fall or move during the shaking. Stay clear of bookshelves, cabinets, and hanging items.
    5. Move to an open area: If you are outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires. Drop to the ground to avoid being knocked off your feet.
    6. Remember, every earthquake is different, and it is important to assess the situation quickly and react accordingly to ensure your safety.
    • macaria
      How to survive an earthquake at home?
      7 months ago
    • While it's impossible to completely control the outcome of an earthquake, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of survival. Here's a guide on how to survive an earthquake at home:
      1. Prepare in advance:
      2. - Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls or floor using brackets or straps. - Create an emergency preparedness kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, and a portable radio. - Identify safe spots and create an emergency plan with your family. - Familiarize yourself with the building's structure, knowing the safest areas to take cover.
      3. Drop, cover, and hold on:
      4. - When the earthquake begins, drop to the ground to prevent being knocked down by the shaking. - Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table, desk, or against an interior wall. - Protect your head and neck with your arms and hands. - If there's no furniture to take cover under, crouch in an inner corner of the room, away from windows, glass, and heavy objects.
      5. Stay indoors during the shaking:
      6. - Avoid running outside during the earthquake itself, as you may be at risk of falling debris or other hazards. - Stay away from windows, glass, and exterior walls that could shatter or collapse. - If you're on higher floors, avoid using elevators and instead take the stairs carefully after the shaking stops.
      7. Be aware of aftershocks:
      8. - Aftershocks can follow the initial earthquake, so be prepared for further shaking and potential damage. - Check yourself and others for injuries and administer first aid if necessary. - Listen to the news or emergency radio for updates and instructions.
      9. Evacuate if necessary:
      10. - If the building you're in is severely damaged and it's deemed unsafe to stay, evacuate calmly and follow the given evacuation routes. - Before leaving, ensure you have your emergency kit and wear protective footwear and clothing. Remember, each earthquake is unique, and the appropriate actions may vary based on your location and the severity of the shaking. Stay informed, have a plan, and practice earthquake drills with your family to be better prepared.
      • arnor labingi
        What three steps can be taken to protect yourself during an earthquake if you are inside a building?
        7 months ago
      • Here are three steps you can take to protect yourself during an earthquake if you are inside a building:
        1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to the ground to prevent being knocked over by the shaking. Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table or desk, and protect your head and neck with one arm. Hold on to the furniture until shaking stops. If there is no furniture nearby, crouch against an interior wall, away from windows, glass, or potential falling objects.
        2. Stay Inside: During an earthquake, it is generally safer to stay inside rather than attempting to leave the building. Running outside may expose you to falling debris, shattered glass, or collapsing structures. If you are near an exit and can safely reach it without risking injury, you may leave the building but avoid using elevators.
        3. Avoid Hazards: Identify and avoid potential hazards in your surroundings. Stay away from windows, glass, mirrors, and other items that could shatter during shaking. Stay clear of heavy furniture, bookshelves, or appliances that could topple over. Be mindful of electrical equipment, such as overhead lights or hanging fixtures, and avoid standing under them.
        4. Remember, it is important to stay calm during an earthquake and follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself until the shaking stops.
        • jenice
          Is my house safe from an earthquake?
          7 months ago
        • As an AI language model, I cannot assess the safety of your specific house without any specific information. However, there are several factors to consider when determining if a house is safe from an earthquake:
          1. Location: Earthquake activity varies by region. Living in an area with a low or moderate seismic risk is generally safer. However, even in areas with low risk, earthquakes can still occur, so it's important to take precautions.
          2. Building codes and construction quality: Houses built to meet or exceed modern seismic building codes are generally safer during earthquakes. Construction materials and techniques play a significant role in determining a house's resilience.
          3. Structural integrity: Regular inspections and maintenance of the house's foundation, walls, roof, and other structural components are crucial to ensuring their integrity during seismic activity.
          4. Retrofitting: If you live in an older house, you may want to consider retrofitting it to make it more resistant to earthquakes. This may involve adding support to the foundation, reinforcing walls, or making other structural improvements.
          5. Personal preparedness: In addition to assessing the safety of the house itself, it's important to have an earthquake preparedness plan in place. This may include securing heavy objects, creating emergency kits, and educating yourself on what to do during an earthquake.
          6. Consulting with a professional structural engineer or local building authorities can provide a more accurate assessment of your house's safety from earthquakes, considering its specific characteristics and location.
          • john
            Which action would not keep you safe during an earthquake?
            8 months ago
          • One action that would not keep you safe during an earthquake is standing near or under heavy furniture, such as bookshelves or cabinets. These items can topple or collapse during seismic activity, posing a significant risk of injury or even death. It is important to move away from such objects and find a safe spot away from potential falling hazards, ideally taking shelter under a sturdy table or against an interior wall.
            • ARTEMIO
              Which “extra” will help a house survive an earthquake the best?
              8 months ago
            • When it comes to ensuring a house's survival during an earthquake, several "extras" can significantly improve its resilience. Here are a few options:
              1. Reinforced foundation and structural elements: Strengthening the foundation and structural components of a house can enhance its ability to withstand seismic forces. Methods like adding steel reinforcement, reinforcing concrete with fiberglass, or installing seismic-resistant materials can help.
              2. Retrofitting techniques: Retrofitting involves modifying existing construction to make it more earthquake-resistant. Common techniques for retrofitting include adding metal braces or plywood to reinforce weak connections, securing the house to the foundation, or installing shear walls or diagonal bracings.
              3. Flexible utility connections: Ensuring that utility connections, such as gas, water, and electrical lines, are properly secured with flexible connections can reduce the risk of rupture or disconnection during an earthquake. Flexible fittings allow these lines to move and absorb seismic energy, minimizing damage and potential hazards.
              4. Exterior cladding systems: Implementing exterior cladding systems with enhanced seismic resilience can also contribute to a house's ability to withstand earthquakes. These systems typically involve the installation of reinforced materials or flexible joints that absorb and dissipate seismic forces.
              5. Earthquake-resistant design features: Incorporating specific earthquake-resistant design features during construction or renovation can enhance a house's earthquake resilience. Such features include setback design to reduce the risk of collapse, using flexible materials in construction, or employing energy dissipation devices such as base isolators or dampers.
              6. Remember, it is crucial to consult with a professional structural engineer or seismic expert to assess your specific house and tailor the solutions to your needs.
              • Egidio
                Which area is most likely to be the safest during a major earthquake?
                8 months ago
              • Finding the safest area during a major earthquake can be challenging as it depends on various factors, including the magnitude of the earthquake, the proximity to epicenter, and the specific geographical features of the area. However, there are some general considerations that can be helpful:
                1. Open Areas: During an earthquake, it is generally safer to be in open areas away from tall buildings, trees, or other structures that could collapse or cause injury.
                2. Strong Infrastructure: Areas with well-constructed buildings, strict building codes, and advanced seismic engineering techniques tend to fare better during earthquakes. Countries with robust building standards and strict adherence to these codes, such as Japan and California (USA), have safer structures.
                3. Higher Ground: In coastal areas, being in higher elevations may offer better safety during earthquakes as it reduces the risk of tsunamis that often follow seismic events.
                4. Areas with Low Seismic Activity: Regions that historically experience fewer and less severe earthquakes are generally considered safer. However, it is important to note that earthquakes can occur unexpectedly in previously inactive zones as well.
                5. Distance from Fault Lines: Being farther away from major fault lines decreases the intensity of shaking during earthquakes. However, earthquakes can be felt at significant distances from the epicenter, so staying informed and prepared regardless of distance is crucial.
                6. It is important to note that no location can be completely safe from earthquakes, and preparedness is essential regardless of where you are. Following official guidelines, having an emergency kit, and knowing how to respond during an earthquake are important steps to safeguard yourself and others during such events.
                • Lidya
                  What should people do if they are indoors during an earthquake?
                  8 months ago
                • If you are indoors during an earthquake, here are some important steps to follow for your safety:
                  1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Immediately take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table or desk. Protect your head and neck with your arms, and stay away from windows, glass, and heavy objects that may fall.
                  2. Stay Indoors: Do not rush outside during the shaking as you may be at risk of falling objects or debris. Be patient and wait for the shaking to stop before moving.
                  3. Stay Clear of Hazards: If possible, move away from items that may pose a threat during an earthquake, such as heavy furniture, bookshelves, or appliances that could tip over. Stay away from the kitchen, where you might be at risk of broken glass or falling objects.
                  4. Seek Shelter: If you are unable to get under a sturdy object, you can seek additional shelter by sitting against an interior wall away from windows. Protect your head and face with your arms.
                  5. If You're in Bed: Stay in your bed and protect your head with a pillow. Cover yourself if possible and hold on until the shaking stops.
                  6. Be Aware of Doorways: Despite common beliefs, doorways are not the safest place to be. It is better to seek sturdy furniture or follow the Drop, Cover, and Hold On method.
                  7. Communicate: If possible, use a cell phone or any accessible means of communication to inform others of your situation. Text messages can be more reliable during times of high call volume.
                  8. Beware of Aftershocks: Earthquakes can be followed by aftershocks, which are smaller tremors. Be prepared for these and continue to follow safety precautions while assessing the damage and ensuring your safety.
                  9. Remember, earthquake situations can vary, so it's crucial to stay informed and follow any specific guidelines or recommendations provided by local authorities.
                  • Larry
                    Is it better to be inside or outside during an earthquake?
                    9 months ago
                  • During an earthquake, it is generally safer to be inside a stable structure than outside. Being inside provides some protection from falling objects, debris, and potential collapse of buildings. However, it is essential to take immediate precautions wherever you are when an earthquake occurs. Here are some guidelines to follow:
                    1. Inside a building:
                    2. - Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture (such as a table or desk), and hold on until shaking stops. This will help protect you from falling objects and minimize the risk of injury. - Avoid doorways: Contrary to popular belief, doorways are not the safest place to be during an earthquake. It is better to take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture.
                    3. Outside:
                    4. - Move to an open area: If you are outside, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires. Find an open space away from potential hazards where you are less likely to be struck by falling objects. - Protect your head and neck: If no open space is available, drop to the ground, protect your head and neck with your arms, and stay low until shaking stops. Avoid standing near tall structures, trees, or power lines that could potentially fall. Remember, each earthquake is different, and the safest action may vary depending on your specific situation.
                    • sebhat
                      Is it safer to be outside during an earthquake?
                      9 months ago
                    • No, it is generally not safer to be outside during an earthquake. The safest place to be during an earthquake is usually indoors, away from windows, heavy furniture, and other potential hazards that could cause injury. Being outside during an earthquake can expose you to falling debris, collapsing structures, and other dangers. However, if you are outside during an earthquake, it is important to stay clear of buildings, trees, power lines, and other objects that could potentially fall or collapse.
                      • stefan schmidt
                        How can we ensure security when an earthquake strikes?
                        11 months ago
                        1. Secure items that can be tossed around during a quake: Secure heavy furniture, shelves and electronics to walls, keeping them away from areas where people congregate. Install latches on cabinets and drawers to prevent items from falling out.
                        2. Install an automatic shut-off switch for gas and electric appliances: This will help prevent gas and electric lines from being damaged or broken.
                        3. Make sure doors and windows are properly secured: Inspect all door and window frames and make sure they are securely fastened. Install shutter locks and other devices to reduce the risk of items flying through the air during a quake.
                        4. Have an emergency plan in place: Discuss a customized emergency plan with your family and make sure everyone understands it. Keep essential documents, supplies and a first aid kit handy.
                        5. Prepare an evacuation plan: Keep your family familiar with the routes and exits needed to leave your home or building if an earthquake strikes.
                        6. Stay aware of earthquake warnings: Monitor warnings issued by your local emergency agencies and stay informed of the latest earthquake risks, as well as the locations of nearby shelters.
                        • adelaide
                          Which floor is safest during an earthquake?
                          12 months ago
                        • When an earthquake strikes, the safest place to be is on the ground floor of a sturdy building, away from windows and other objects that can break, fall, or shake. It is also best to stay away from structures that are likely to collapse, such as tall buildings, bridges, and power lines. If you are in a multi-story building, move to the lowest level and crouch under a desk or table for protection. If you are outdoors, look for a clear spot away from trees, buildings, and power lines.
                          • craig
                            What can you do to prevent casualties in your family incase an earthquake hits your town?
                            1 year ago
                            1. Make sure everyone in your family knows how to respond during an earthquake. Make sure they know to stay away from large objects that can fall, like furniture and shelves, and to head for the most secure area of your home, typically a doorway or hallway that doesn’t have any heavy objects above it.
                            2. Before an earthquake hits, practice evacuation routes with your family so that everyone knows exactly how to get out of the building and to safety.
                            3. Ensure that your family has emergency supplies like water and non-perishable food, as well as a first aid kit, flashlights and extra batteries.
                            4. Have a communication plan in place with your family so that everyone knows how to reach each other if you are separated during an earthquake.
                            5. Make sure that all your family members know where to find a safe shelter. Talk about what local shelters are available in your community and where you can all go in case of an earthquake.
                            6. If possible, secure your home by strapping heavy furniture to walls and bolting bookcases and other furniture to the floor. This will help reduce the risk of items falling during an earthquake.
                            • Maximilian
                              How can utilities be made safer to avoid damage during and after earthquakes?
                              1 year ago
                              1. Perform regular inspections of utility systems and buildings, and upgrade them as needed to meet current safety standards.
                              2. Install seismic shut-off valves and other earthquake-resistant features on gas lines and other utilities.
                              3. Invest in seismic retrofitting of utility systems and buildings, such as with shear walls or base isolation technology.
                              4. Utilize emergency power sources and backup systems in case of power outages.
                              5. Train utility personnel on emergency response protocols and ensure that they have the right supplies and equipment to respond during an earthquake.
                              6. Consolidate utility buildings and systems to reduce the risks of having multiple points of failure during an earthquake.
                              • milly
                                How can you stay safe during an earthquake?
                                1 year ago
                                1. Drop to the ground, take cover under a heavy desk or table, and hold onto it until the shaking stops.
                                2. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors, and walls.
                                3. If you can, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
                                4. If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
                                5. If you are in a vehicle, stop as quickly as possible and stay in the vehicle.
                                6. Stay away from dams, beaches, and other hazards.