Surviving Earthquakes: Quick Guide to Drop, Cover, and Hold On

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Stay Safe During Earthquakes

Guidelines for Protecting Yourself

Earthquakes can be abrupt and destructive. Quick actions during an earthquake could make all the difference in preventing injuries and minimizing risks to your safety. This guide provides essential steps to follow when earthquakes strike.

Drop, Cover, and Hold On: The Three-Step Method

In most situations, the best course of action involves executing these three steps:

1. DROP onto your hands and knees immediately.

2. COVER your head and neck using a sturdy piece of furniture like a table or desk if avlable. If not, seek cover near an interior wall or low-lying furniture to avoid being knocked down by falling objects.

3. HOLD ON securely to your shelter or protection until the shaking subsides.

Stay Inside

If indoors:

• Do not evacuate to outdoors as you are safer staying inside and under cover than being exposed to falling debris outside.

Safety Actions for Those Inside

To minimize risks, implement these safety measures:

1. Avoid rushing towards doors as it exposes you to potentially dangerous doorways.

2. If close enough, use avlable items such as a pillow or large book to protect your head and face from falling objects.

3. In the kitchen, swiftly turn off gas if possible before ducking for cover.

Situations for Those in Bed

If you are lying down, especially while sleeping:

• Stay where you are and cover your head with a pillow for protection agnst potential impacts.

Preparation for Wheelchr Users

When seated on a wheelchr:

• Lock the wheels to prevent movement. Remove any loose items from the chr.

• Cover your head and neck with whatever is avlable; protect yourself from falling objects.

Remning Outdoor Safety Measures

For individuals outside during an earthquake:

1. Avoid immediate return indoors or near buildings, as debris could fall down onto you from collapsed structures.

2. Move away from trees, utility poles, power lines, and tall buildings to minimize exposure to falling hazards.

3. Seek shelter in a clear area with minimal overhead risks until shaking ceases.

Post-Earthquake: Safety Beyond the Shaking

• Stay calm when trapped inside.

• Alert rescuers by tapping on solid surfaces like pipes or beams for attention.

• Do not use elevators, especially if power is out.

Additional Tips and Resources

For planning ahead, consider:

1. Building a Home Emergency Kit filled with essentials.

2. Developing an Evacuation Plan with family members.

3. Signing up for community alert syste receive updates during crises.

Seeking Further Guidance

Explore these resources for comprehensive advice on earthquake safety and preparedness:

• American Red Cross Earthquake Safety: Offers tips on staying safe before, during, and after earthquakes.

• FEMA's Earthquake Safety Checklist: Provides a step-by-step guide tlored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

• Earthquakes – Ready.gov: A platform dedicated to earthquake readiness with guides and resources for different scenarios.

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