Earthquake when you’re Indoors

If you are indoors when shaking starts:

• “DROP, COVER AND HOLD ON.” If you are not near a strong table or desk, drop to the floor against an interior wall and cover your head and neck with your arms.
• Avoid windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances and cabinets filled with heavy objects.
• Do not try to run out of the structure during strong shaking.
• In some cases you’re safer inside than outside. Glass from high-rise buildings does not always fall straight down; it can catch a wind current and travel great distances.
• If you use a wheelchair, lock the wheels and cover your head.
• Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
• Stay in bed - if you are there when the earthquake strikes - hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place.
• Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, loadbearing doorway.
• Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Most injuries during earthquakes occur when people are hit by falling objects when entering into or exiting from buildings.
• Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on.
• DO NOT use the elevators.