Earthquakes are not predictable. Nor is a tsunami which sometimes is a result of a quake. Fortunately, earthquakes are usually far less dangerous than a hurricane, flash-flood or tsunami, and generally last less than a minute. Earthquakes occur when cracks beneath the surface of the earth (fault-lines) shift, and the movement can often be felt several miles away from its origin. There is a common misconception that if you don't live near a fault-line, that you are not in danger of being impacted by an earthquake. In fact, all 50 states and U.S. territories are at risk, some more than others. If you happen to live near a fault-line, it’s a good idea to become familiar with your surroundings so you can formulate a plan in the event a quake occurs. This might include hiding underneath sturdy furniture or moving to a corner if there isn't any furniture nearby.

If you begin to feel shaking and you're indoors, remain indoors. Don't try to run outside during an earthquake. Both the shaking floor and falling debris can cause injuries. Immediately drop to the floor on your hands and knees and move to a safe place, such as underneath a sturdy piece furniture or move to the nearest corner and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms to protect yourself from falling debris. Remember to stay away from windows and doors. If none of the above is possible, try to find a sturdy object to hold onto and stay there until the shaking stops.

Earthquakes can happen at any time of the day or night. If you find yourself in bed at night during an earthquake, drop to the floor and stay there. Frantic moving in the dark may result in injuries, and staying still on the floor is best.

If you’re outdoors during an earthquake, stay outdoors. Move away from electrical wires and buildings to avoid injury. Be aware of any debris falling from the buildings nearby. If you’re driving, pull over quickly if you feel you can do so safely. If you’re surrounded by trees or buildings, try to move away from them as these may pose a threat. Once you feel you’re in a safe spot, put your hazard lights on and remain there until the shaking stops. Proceed with extreme caution as often quakes will split roads and damage bridges and underpasses causing driving hazards.

Once the shaking subsides, move yourself outdoors and away from any damaged buildings.

Be prepared to drop to the floor again in the event the shaking returns. Aftershocks may occur shortly after the initial shaking. If you have a cell phone, call your emergency hot line if you or anyone nearby are trapped or injured. Then take necessary steps to save your cell phone battery in the event you need to call later if not soon rescued. If you are trapped, don't move. You don't know how bad your surroundings may be, and trying to free yourself could make matters worse. If you can, yell or bang on anything near you so rescue workers know you need help.