If you experience an earthquake, there are several things you should do to stay safe:

Before an earthquake:

1.            Prepare an emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit containing essentials like food, water, medical supplies, and important documents. Keep the kit in a safe and easily accessible place.

2.            Secure your home: Identify potential hazards in your home, like bookcases or heavy furniture, and secure them to prevent them from falling. Check your home's foundation and structure for any potential weaknesses that can be repaired before an earthquake occurs.

3.            Create an emergency plan: Discuss with your family members what you should do in case of an earthquake. Identify safe places in your home or nearby where you can take shelter.

4.            Know how to turn off gas, water and electricity: Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity in your home. Make sure your family members also know how to do this.

During an earthquake:

1.            Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you are indoors when an earthquake occurs, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If there is no table or desk nearby, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building away from windows and tall furniture.

2.            Stay put: Do not try to leave the building during the shaking. You are safer staying where you are until the shaking stops.

3.            Be aware of aftershocks: Earthquakes can be followed by aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that can still cause damage. Be prepared to take cover again if an aftershock occurs.

After an earthquake:

1.            Check for injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. Administer first aid as needed, and seek medical attention for serious injuries.

2.            Check for damage: Check your home and surrounding area for damage. Avoid using candles or open flames in case of gas leaks, and shut off the gas supply if you smell gas.

3.            Listen for updates: Listen to local news and emergency alerts for updates on the situation and any potential hazards.

4.            Assist others: If you are able, assist others who may need help, such as elderly or disabled neighbors.

 5.          Prepare for aftershocks: Be prepared for aftershocks, which can be just as dangerous as the initial earthquake. Take shelter again if an aftershock occurs.