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If you are indoors: 
- Duck, Cover, and Hold;
- Do NOT stand in doorways or run outside;
- If you cannot get under a table or desk, stand next to an interior wall or inside corner of the building, drop and cover your neck and head with your arms. Use a doorway for shelter ONLY if it is in close proximity to you AND if you know it is a strongly supported, load bearing doorway;
- If you are cooking, turn the stove off before you drop and cover;
- If you are in bed, stay in bed and cover your head with your pillow.
If you are outdoors:
- Stay there!
- Move away from buildings, power lines, and utility poles;
- Once in the open, stay there until the shaking stops.
- If you are on the coast, move to higher ground immediately.
If you are driving:
- Do not stop in or under overpasses, bridges, or tunnels;
- Do not stop under or near electrical power lines, light posts, trees, or signs;
- Pull to the side of the road and set the emergency brake;
- Stay in your car until the earthquake is over.
If you are trapped under debris:
- Do NOT light a match;
- Do not move around or kick up dust;
- Cover your mouth with a piece of clothing or cloth;
- Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust;
- Stay calm.
Related Content
- California Governor's Office: Preparing Your Family for an Earthquake (pdf)
- Homeowners' Guide to Earthquake Safety (pdf)
- Turning Off Your Building's Natural Gas Line
