Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
Before
- Secure tall furniture, TVs and water heaters to walls; store heavy items low.
- Identify safe spots in each room — under a sturdy table or against an interior wall.
- Know how to shut off gas, water and electricity.
- Keep shoes and a torch by the bed.
During shaking
- Drop to your hands and knees before the shaking knocks you down.
- Cover your head and neck under a sturdy table or desk; if none, crouch against an interior wall away from windows.
- Hold on until the shaking stops.
Do not run outside during shaking — falling glass and masonry cause many injuries. In bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow. Outdoors, move away from buildings, trees and power lines. Driving, pull over away from bridges and overpasses and stay inside.
After
- Expect aftershocks; drop, cover and hold on each time.
- Check for injuries and give first aid. Smell gas? Leave and report it; don't use switches or flames.
- Near the coast: if shaking was strong or long, move to high ground immediately — don't wait for an official tsunami warning.
- Text rather than call to keep lines free.
Watch: Drop, Cover, and Hold On
Video hosted on YouTube by its original publisher; embedded for education.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction