SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/safety-earthquake-drop-cover-hold

Indoors during earthquake shaking, what three actions should you take?

Drop, cover, and hold on.

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  1. Run to an elevator
  2. Drop, cover, and hold on ✔
  3. Stand beside a window

Why: Drop before shaking knocks you down, cover your head and neck, and hold on to your shelter. Do not run outside through falling hazards while shaking continues.

Huh, didn't know that: A doorway is no safer than other spots in a modern home and does not protect you from falling objects.

The dad joke
What did one tectonic plate say to the other? Sorry, my fault.
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References

Answer: Drop, cover, and hold on. Drop before shaking knocks you down, cover your head and neck, and hold on to your shelter. Do not run outside through falling hazards while shaking continues.

  1. Drop, Cover, Hold On, U.S. Geological Survey www.usgs.gov/media/images/drop-cover-hold-0
    During an earthquake, the recommended safety action is to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On."
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Drop, Cover, and Hold On, Great ShakeOut (Southern California Earthquake Center) www.shakeout.org/dropcoverholdon
    In modern houses and buildings, doorways are no safer, and they do not protect you from flying or falling objects.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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