Knowing the right safety protocol in an earthquake is hugely important– especially if you live in earthquake-prone areas. Help keep you and your family safe during an earthquake by learning what to do.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the first rules you need to know are: drop, cover, and hold on.
1. Drop down onto your hands and knees in a crawl position so that you are close to the ground but can move easily.
2. Cover your head and neck under a desk or table. If possible, cover your entire body. If you can’t find something to shelter under in your vicinity then look for an interior wall or furniture that is low to the ground and won’t fall onto you. Then cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.
3. Last step is to hold on to your head and neck or your shelter until the shaking stops. If the item you’re sheltering under or next to moves around, move with it.
If you’re home when an earthquake hits stay where you are. Don’t go outside, don’t even leave the room you're in. If you're in a building, don’t try to use the elevator because electricity could go down. You are more likely to get hurt if you move around so stay put.
Most earthquake injuries come from falling glass and objects. So the only time you should move is before the shaking gets worse, quickly move away from any glass, bookcases, hanging objects, china cabinets, and other large and tall furniture. Basically, get away from anything that has the potential to fall on you. Aside from windows and furniture, watch out for falling objects like light fixtures, bricks, and cabinets with doors that could swing open.
Remember above when we talked about covering your head and neck? That comes into play here too. Look for something to shield yourself with.
Don't forget, If you are in the kitchen, turn off the stove and take cover. If you are in bed when the earthquake hits, stay put and over your head with a pillow.
I've heard so many times that when an earthquake hits to stand in the doorway, but you actually shouldn't do that. Instead, seek shelter under a table. A doorway will not protect you from falling or flying objects.
By chance, if you get trapped, try tapping on hard or metal surfaces to alert attention and help someone find and rescue you.
Sources: cdc.gov
