How to Hide Under Wooden Stairs in an Earthquake

Earthquakes are terrifying natural events that can cause serious structural damage to buildings, roads and homes. They vary in frequency and severity, and cannot be predicted, so safety precautions should be planned in advance, to ensure an adequate response if one occurs. Falling debris is the greatest safety risk if you're indoors during an earthquake. Fortunately, there are many places within your home to seek shelter, including inside door frames, in basements and beneath staircases.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Go beneath the staircase when the earthquake hits. Brace yourself against the wall and lower yourself to the ground.

   • 2

     Lower your head and protect your eyes with your arm, facing the wall beneath the stairs. This will also protect your head, while preventing stray debris or dust from kicking up and impairing your vision.

   • 3

     Remain beneath the staircase until the earth stops trembling. When it seems safe, check yourself for injuries before helping others. Be advised that aftershocks do occur, so vacate the building as soon as possible.