How to Protect Yourself
Before an earthquake:Fasten shelves to walls and put heavy objects on low shelves. Store breakable items in low cabinets. Hang items such as pictures away from beds or anywhere people sit. Brace hanging lights. Fix bad electrical wiring. Strap your water heater to the wall and bolt it to the floor. Repair any large cacks in walls. Identify safe places in each room. Locate safe places outdoors. Teach family members how to turn off things such as gas and water. Teach children how to dial 911. Develop an emergency communications plan.
During an earthquake:
In most stuations, you will reduce injury by doing this:
DROP down onto your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you down. This protects you from falling but allows you to move if necessary.
COVER your head, neck, and your entire body if possible under an object such as a table. If there is no shelter nearby, get near a wall and cover your head and neck with you hands and/or arms.
HOLD ON to shelter until the earthquake stops. You will have to move with your shelter if it shifts around.
During an earthquake:
In most stuations, you will reduce injury by doing this:
DROP down onto your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you down. This protects you from falling but allows you to move if necessary.
COVER your head, neck, and your entire body if possible under an object such as a table. If there is no shelter nearby, get near a wall and cover your head and neck with you hands and/or arms.
HOLD ON to shelter until the earthquake stops. You will have to move with your shelter if it shifts around.