How to protect yourself DURING an earthquake

If you are indoors:
DROP
COVER
HOLD ON
If you are not next to a desk or a table, drop to the floor against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms.
-Avoid exterior walls with windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniutre, large appliances, and cabinets filled with heavy objects.
-Do not go outside until well after shaking stops!

In Bed:Hold on and stay there, protecting your head with a pillow.You are less likely to get injured staying where you are. Broken glass on the floor can cause injuries; be sure to put shoes on before stepping on the floor. It is recommended that you put a pair of shoes/slippers upside down, or in a bag under you bed for this reason. Put a flashlight inside the shoe as well.

At Work:Always do DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON. Know your workplace's earthquake safety plan. Don't use elevators. Don't be surprised if sprinkler systems or fire alarms activate.

If you are Outdoors: MOve to a clear area if you can do so safely; avoid buildings, power lines, trees, and other hazards. Always assume fallen power lines are live.

Near tall buildings: Windows, facades, and architectural details are often the first parts of a building to collapse. Take refuge in a safe building or an open space.

Driving: When able, safely pull over to the side of the road, stop and set the parking brake. Avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs, trees, and other things that might collapse or fall on the vehicle. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking is over. If a power line falls on the vehicle, stay inside until a trained person removes the hazard.

In a stadium: Stay in your seat and protect your head and neck with your arms. Don't try to leave until the shaking is over. Then exit slowly, avoiding debris and watching for anything that could fall in aftershocks.

There has been a rumor passed around, online especially, that states the DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON method does not work as well. The Red Cross issued a statement saying this is false and we should continue to use this method for the best protection.

-They also mentioned that going under a doorway is not as safe or practical. Apparently homes that are being built now do not have as strong of door frames as in the past. Have a family meeting this week and then practice!!!! My kids are familiar with the "earth shakes" on Land Before Time, so my 3 year old understands what I am talking about. I "shake" them and tell them it's an earthquake. We all run under the table and hold on. We practice in other rooms in the house as well as outside. They think it is a lot of fun and I feel it is something they will remember when the real thing happens. Make it a goal this week:)