Here are some earthquake safety tips that can help the people safe if things start shaking. Do not panic - the shaking usually lasts less than a minute, and most damage is caused by falling objects and resulting fires.
According to a study, the people should be sure that water heaters and gas appliances are fastened down and make sure wall-mounted televisions, stereos, bookcases, artwork and hanging plants are securely fastened and cannot be shaken loose.
Be alert for breakable items that are in danger of falling if your home begins to shake and be especially alert to glass things.
The broken glass on the floor accounts for many of the injuries suffered in the aftermath of an earthquake and glass-filled carpets remain hazardous long after the danger of the quake has passed.
Keep an old pair of slippers or loose shoes under your bed and if you are awakened by a quake, remember to put them on before you stand up.
Make sure you have a family emergency plan that tells family members what to do in the event of an emergency. Have a meeting spot outside your home where you gather once the emergency has passed.
Set up a relative out of state beforehand to serve as a point of contact for you and for distant relatives who want to check on you.
By designating that person in advance, you may only need to make one telephone call, not several. Think ahead: Keep flashlight batteries and candles on hand. Make sure you have a small portable radio. At least one family member should have had first-aid training.
If you feel an earthquake starting and you are in your school, get under your desk and remain there until the shaking stops and follow the school emergency plan.
If you are inside a building when a quake hits, stay inside and get under a heavy table or desk, or stand inside an interior doorway. Stay away from windows. Do not evacuate the building until the shaking stops.
If you are outside, get away from buildings and power lines, and remember that stone facings are shaken loose and then cast outward, not just straight down, from upper stories.
If you are in a car, stop safely away from large trees or structures, and stay inside the vehicle.
All family members should know how to turn off utilities (gas, electricity) in the home. Do not light candles until gas lines are checked.
In the aftermath of an earthquake, check all parts of your home. After an earthquake stay out of damaged buildings.