© Shutterstock

Before the earthquake: create an emergency plan -

Develop and practice an earthquake safety plan with your family or coworkers, including evacuation routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts.

© Shutterstock

Secure heavy objects -

Fasten bookshelves, mirrors, and heavy furniture to walls. Store breakable and heavy items on lower shelves to prevent them from falling.

© Shutterstock

Prepare an emergency kit -

Keep a kit with water, food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and essential medications in an easily accessible location.

© Shutterstock

Know your safe and unsafe spots -

Identify sturdy furniture to take cover under and avoid areas near windows, mirrors, and hanging objects that may fall.

© Shutterstock

Learn how to shut off utilities -

Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water in case of leaks or damage after an earthquake.

© Shutterstock

Reinforce your home -

Check for structural weaknesses in your home, such as unsecured foundations or chimneys, and strengthen them if necessary.

© Shutterstock

Take a first aid course -

Learn basic first aid and CPR so you can help yourself and others in case of injury.

© Shutterstock

Practice drop, cover, and hold on -

Regularly practice the "drop, cover, and hold on" drill so you and your family react instinctively when an earthquake hits.

© Shutterstock

Install earthquake alerts on your phone -

Enable earthquake early warning alerts on your mobile device for real-time notifications of seismic activity.

© Shutterstock

Have emergency contacts ready -

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and family members, in your phone and written down.

© Shutterstock

During the earthquake (indoors): drop, cover, and hold on -

Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck under sturdy furniture, and hold on until the shaking stops.

© Shutterstock

Stay away from windows and glass -

Move away from windows, glass doors, and mirrors to avoid getting injured by shattered glass.

© Shutterstock

Avoid doorways -

Contrary to popular belief, standing in a doorway doesn't provide adequate protection. Seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk instead.

© Shutterstock

Stay inside until the shaking stops -

Don't run outside during an earthquake, as falling debris poses a greater risk than staying indoors.

© Shutterstock

If in bed, stay there -

Cover your head with a pillow and stay put to avoid injury from falling objects.

© Shutterstock

Protect your head and neck -

If there’s no sturdy furniture nearby, crouch against an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.

© Shutterstock

During the earthquake (outdoors): Move away from buildings and power lines -

If outside, move to an open area away from buildings, streetlights, and trees that may collapse.

© Shutterstock

Drop to the ground -

Make sure you stay low to maintain balance and protect yourself from falling objects.

© Shutterstock

If driving, stop safely -

Pull over to a safe area away from bridges, overpasses, and power lines. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.

© Shutterstock

Avoid crowds and panic -

If in a crowded place, stay calm, move cautiously, and avoid stampedes. Follow emergency procedures and listen to authorities. 

© Shutterstock

After the earthquake: Check yourself and others for injuries -

Provide first aid if necessary and call for medical assistance if anyone is seriously injured.

© Shutterstock

Be prepared for aftershocks -

Aftershocks can occur minutes, hours, or even days after the main earthquake. Stay alert and take cover if needed.

© Shutterstock

Inspect your surroundings for damage -

Look for structural damage, gas leaks, or fire hazards before re-entering your home or workplace.

© Shutterstock

Turn off gas if you smell a leak -

If you detect a gas leak, turn off the gas supply, leave the building immediately, and notify authorities.

© Shutterstock

Avoid using elevators -

Stick to stairs, as elevators may become stuck or malfunction due to earthquake damage.

© Shutterstock

Use a battery-powered radio for updates -

Listen to emergency broadcasts for information on aftershocks, evacuation orders, and emergency services.

© Shutterstock

Stay away from coastal areas -

If you're near the ocean, move to higher ground immediately, as earthquakes can trigger tsunamis. Stay updated on emergency alerts and avoid returning until authorities declare it safe.

© Shutterstock

Don't enter severely damaged buildings -

Buildings with visible cracks, leaning structures, or partial collapses are unsafe and should be avoided.

© Shutterstock

Help others and stay calm -

Assist neighbors, especially the elderly, children, or disabled individuals, and remain calm to ensure safety for everyone.

Sources: (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) (National Geographic) 

See also: How earthquakes reshape our planet

© Shutterstock