During an earthquake, the safest place is usually inside where you are , not outside running during the shaking. If you’re indoors, drop, cover, and hold on under a sturdy table or desk, or beside an interior wall away from windows and heavy objects.

Quick Scoop

  • Indoors: Stay inside, get under sturdy furniture if possible, and keep away from exterior walls, windows, mirrors, tall furniture, and kitchen cabinets.
  • Outside: Move to a clear open area away from buildings, power lines, trees, signs, and anything that could fall.
  • In a car: Pull over safely, stop, and stay in the vehicle until the shaking stops; avoid bridges, overpasses, and utility poles.
  • Near the coast: If you’re in a tsunami zone and the quake is strong, move to higher ground as soon as shaking stops.

What to avoid

  • Do not rush outside while the ground is shaking.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • Do not stand near windows, glass, or heavy furniture that could fall.

Special situations

  • In bed: Stay there and protect your head with a pillow.
  • In a high-rise: Drop, cover, and hold on; do not use elevators.
  • In a stadium or theater: Stay in your seat and protect your head and neck until the shaking stops.

Simple rule

A good rule of thumb is: if you’re inside, stay inside; if you’re outside, stay outside.