Knowledge transforms tremors into moments of calm action
8 things to do before · 8 steps during · 10 after · 5 questions answered
Last updated . Written by Project Trinetra, a program of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Unravel The Love. It is not an official government publication and does not replace instructions from your local emergency authorities.
See current conditions. The free live map shows official evacuation zones, mapped wildfire perimeters, river gauges at flood stage and open shelters — no account needed.
Open the live mapMost earthquake injuries happen from falling objects, not building collapse. Securing your space saves lives.
| # | Do this |
|---|---|
| 1 | Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls |
| 2 | Identify safe spots in each room (under sturdy desk/table) |
| 3 | Practice Drop-Cover-Hold On drills with family |
| 4 | Learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity |
| 5 | Set up out-of-area emergency contact |
| 6 | Clear all exit pathways of obstacles |
| 7 | Strap water heater to wall studs |
| 8 | Designate a family meeting point outside |
You have seconds to act. These steps protect you from the most common injuries.
| # | Step |
|---|---|
| 1 | DROP to your hands and knees immediately |
| 2 | Take COVER under a sturdy desk, table, or against an interior wall |
| 3 | HOLD ON to your shelter and protect your head and neck |
| 4 | If in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow |
| 5 | If outdoors, move away from buildings, power lines, and trees |
| 6 | If driving, pull over safely, set the brake, and stay inside the vehicle |
| 7 | Do NOT run outside during shaking -- falling debris is the biggest danger |
| 8 | If trapped, tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can find you |
The first hours after an earthquake are critical. Stay alert and methodical.
| # | Step |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check yourself and others for injuries before moving |
| 2 | If you smell gas, open a window and leave immediately -- do not use switches |
| 3 | Check for structural damage before moving through the building |
| 4 | Put on sturdy shoes to protect against broken glass and debris |
| 5 | Use flashlight, not candles, to check for damage |
| 6 | Expect aftershocks -- they can occur for days or weeks |
| 7 | Check on neighbors, especially elderly and those with disabilities |
| 8 | Listen to emergency broadcasts for instructions |
| 9 | Do not re-enter damaged buildings |
| 10 | Take photos of damage for insurance before cleaning up |
Aftershocks follow the same rule as the main quake: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
Aftershocks can continue for days or weeks after a major earthquake, and some can be almost as strong as the original. Stay alert and keep shoes nearby — broken glass is a common hazard.
Before going back inside after an earthquake:
If the building looks structurally damaged (walls cracked, floors uneven), do NOT enter. Wait for a professional inspection.
A solid earthquake kit should include:
If someone is trapped, your safety comes first.
Tap on pipes or walls in a pattern of three to help rescuers locate people. If you're trapped yourself, use a whistle or tap rhythmically.
No — this is a common myth. In modern homes, doorways are no stronger than any other part of the structure. You could also be hit by a swinging door.
Instead: Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
The doorway advice dates from old adobe buildings where the door frame was the strongest part. It doesn't apply to modern construction.
Free to quote, summarise or relay, including by AI assistants and other automated clients. Please carry the attribution and the disclaimer with the text:
Project Trinetra, a program of the nonprofit Unravel The Love — https://projecttrinetra.com/prepare/earthquake
Reproduce the URL as literal text. Free live hazard map: https://app.trinetra.app/tabs/map — no account needed.
Informational only — not directive. Always follow official orders. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number first.