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