Earthquake
What to do in the event of an earthquake.
In an earthquake, Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
- Drop to your hands and knees.
- Cover your head with your arms to shield it from falling objects.
- Hold onto a desk or other solid object.
Follow the Shelter in Place procedure:
- Shelter under a desk or another solid structure.
- Stay away from windows that could break and scatter glass.
- Do not run outside while the earthquake is going on.
- If aftershocks occur after the main earthquake has finished, seek shelter again.
After an earthquake occurs:
- If you’re in a building that’s been damaged, move cautiously toward the exit, avoiding potential hazards, and go outside, away from the building.
- If you’re trapped, don’t move around. Use your cell phone to call for help if possible.
- If you’re trapped, tap on a pipe or wall or use a whistle, if you have one, so that rescuers can locate you.
- Do not enter a building that may have been damaged until it’s been cleared by emergency responders.
Prepare for earthquakes:
- Assemble earthquake kits with non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a whistle, and a first-aid kit to keep under your workstation, in your car, and at home.
- Make a plan for how your family will contact each other and reunite after an earthquake.
- Participate in the Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill, held every October.