3 Steps to Seismic Safety

What to do when an earthquake occurs

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“Drop, Cover and Hold On!” Turn away from windows, mirrors, and other exposed glass to protect your face from shards. Standing in doorways, the “Triangle of Life,” and running outside are methods proven by the American Red Cross to be outdated, likely to increase injury, and/or inappropriate for current U.S. indoor built environments.

If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow.

If you are driving, pull over, stop the car, and set the emergency break. Stay in the car until the shaking stops. If a power line falls on your vehicle, stay inside until help arrives.

If you are in an elevator, stop at the nearest floor and get out. Then drop, cover, and hold on.

If you are in a stadium or theater, remain in your seat until the shaking stops and then evacuate calmly.

If outdoors, stay clear of possible hazards including cars, bridges, power lines, structures, trees, and loose rock (landslides).

If you are on a city sidewalk, duck into a doorway to stay out of the street while avoiding falling debris.

If you are by the beach and shaking lasts for more than 20 seconds, or the shoreline recedes, move immediately for high ground because the earthquake could be causing a tsunami. Minimum recommended clearance is 3km/2mi inland or 30m/100ft above sea level.

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