What to do during an earthquake
Staying calm and following the right steps during an earthquake saves lives. The information below is based on AFAD and official sources.
5 steps during an earthquake
- Drop – Drop to the ground.
- Cover – Cover your head and neck with your arms or a sturdy object.
- Hold on – Hold on to a sturdy desk, table or leg; stay in place until shaking stops.
- Stay away from windows, balconies, elevators and stairs.
- After shaking stops, turn off gas, electricity and water if safe, then go to the assembly point.
Drop – Cover – Hold on
Indoors, the safest behaviour is Drop–Cover–Hold on: drop to the ground, protect your head and neck, hold on to something sturdy. If there is no desk or table, crouch by an interior wall and protect your head with your arms. Do not run, go out on the balcony, or jump from windows.
What not to do
- Do not use the elevator.
- Do not go out on the balcony or jump from windows.
- Do not stand in a doorway (old myth; not reliably safe).
- Do not run to stairs; stay where you are and Drop–Cover–Hold on until shaking stops.
- If outdoors, stay away from power lines, trees, buildings and walls.