During an earthquake, what should you do if you are outside?

During an earthquake, what should you do if you are outside?

• A. Move to the lowest level of a building.
• B. Sit and cover head with arms.
• C. Use stairs to evacuate.
• D. Move into an open area away from glass and electric wires.

Answer: (D)

When you’re outside, the priority is to get away from places where debris or hazards could strike you. Earthquakes can cause glass to shatter and power lines to fall or become energized. Moving into an open area away from glass and electrical wires reduces your risk from falling shards and electrocution, and it also keeps you clear of buildings, trees, and signs that could collapse or shed debris. This choice matches that safety goal by placing you in a location with fewer hazards during the shaking. Actions like going into a building, sitting with your head covered, or evacuating via stairs don’t fit the outside scenario and can put you in the path of falling debris or hinder your safety during the tremor. After shaking stops, check for injuries and hazards and stay away from downed wires.

When you’re outside, the priority is to get away from places where debris or hazards could strike you. Earthquakes can cause glass to shatter and power lines to fall or become energized. Moving into an open area away from glass and electrical wires reduces your risk from falling shards and electrocution, and it also keeps you clear of buildings, trees, and signs that could collapse or shed debris. This choice matches that safety goal by placing you in a location with fewer hazards during the shaking.

Actions like going into a building, sitting with your head covered, or evacuating via stairs don’t fit the outside scenario and can put you in the path of falling debris or hinder your safety during the tremor. After shaking stops, check for injuries and hazards and stay away from downed wires.