Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On
During an earthquake, you should Drop, Cover, and Hold On to protect yourself from falling debris. Practice with your entire household so everyone knows what to do. Here is how to practice:
DROP where you are onto your hands and knees.
- This position protects you from being knocked down and allows you to crawl to a protected space.
COVER your head and neck with your arms.
- If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for protection.
- If you cannot find a protected space, crawl to an interior wall (away from windows).
- Stay on your knees and bend over to protect yourself from injury.
HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
- If you are under a table or desk, hold onto it as things will be moving. Use an arm to protect your head and neck.
- If you are not under a protected space: Protect your head and neck with both arms.