No one can predict when the “Big One” will strike—but everyone can prepare. Here’s how to stay calm, act smart, and protect life and limb when a powerful earthquake hits—wherever you may be.

By Rafael R. Castillo, MD

A magnitude 7 or higher earthquake releases an enormous amount of energy—strong enough to collapse poorly built structures, cut off power and water supplies, and trigger landslides or tsunamis. In the Philippines, which lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” such a quake isn’t a matter of if, but when.

The good news: survival often depends less on strength and more on presence of mind and preparation. Knowing what to do before, during, and after an earthquake can spell the difference between chaos and control—between life and death.

If You’re at Home

Most earthquake injuries happen because of falling objects—glass, fixtures, and unsecured furniture—not because the ground “opens up.”

During the shaking:

1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
   • Drop to the ground before the shaking knocks you down.
   • Take cover under a sturdy table or desk to protect your head and neck from falling debris.
   • Hold on until the shaking stops.
2. Stay Away from Windows, Mirrors, and Cabinets. Glass can shatter and cause severe injuries.
3. Don’t Run Outside During the Shaking. Many fatalities occur from falling debris near exits. Wait until the tremor subsides before moving.
4. If You’re in Bed, Stay There. Cover your head with a pillow and protect yourself from falling objects.

After the shaking stops:

4. Turn off gas valves and unplug appliances to prevent fires.
5. Wear shoes before stepping on broken glass or debris.
6. Expect aftershocks—move carefully and keep an emergency bag handy.

If You’re in a High-Rise Building

High-rise structures are designed to sway rather than collapse—but the experience can be terrifying.

During the shaking:

1. Stay where you are. Don’t rush to elevators or stairways—they may be unsafe or jammed.
2. Move away from windows and glass walls. Find cover under a desk or sturdy furniture.
3. Brace yourself against an interior wall or column. Protect your head and neck.
4. If you’re in an elevator: Press all floor buttons and get off at the next available stop. If trapped, stay calm and call for help through the emergency intercom.

After the shaking stops:

• Follow the building’s emergency protocols.
• Use stairs only after confirming they are structurally sound.
• Do not use elevators until authorities declare them safe.
• Exit calmly and proceed to the designated evacuation area.

If You’re Inside a Vehicle

Earthquakes on the road are disorienting—vehicles may feel like they have flat tires or are suddenly hard to steer.

If driving:

1. Pull over safely. Stop as quickly as possible, away from bridges, overpasses, power lines, and tall structures that could collapse.
2. Stay inside the vehicle. It provides good protection from falling debris.
3. Set the parking brake and keep your seatbelt on.
4. Listen to the radio or phone alerts for updates.
5. Do not drive until the shaking stops and it’s safe to move again—roads may have cracks or debris.

If in public transport (bus or train):

• Follow the crew’s instructions.
• Protect your head with your arms or belongings.
• Remain seated and calm until it’s safe to evacuate.

If You’re in School or at Work

During the shaking:

• Duck under your desk or table.
• Stay away from glass windows and heavy shelves.
• If you’re a teacher or leader, keep people calm and remind them of the evacuation route.

After the shaking:

• Proceed to open spaces using stairs, not elevators.
• Count heads and check for injuries before leaving the building.

If You’re Outdoors

• Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, lamp posts, and power lines.
• If you’re near the coast, move to higher ground immediately in case a tsunami follows.
• Stay alert for falling rocks if you’re near mountains or cliffs.

Before the Quake: Prepare and Plan

Earthquake safety begins long before the ground starts shaking. Here’s how to make your home—and family—earthquake-ready.

1. Secure Your Home.

• Fasten heavy furniture, bookshelves, and appliances to walls.
• Move breakables and flammable items to lower shelves.
• Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity at the main switches.

2. Build a Family Emergency Plan.

• Designate a safe meeting point outside your home.
• Assign responsibilities (who grabs the emergency kit, who helps children or elderly members).
• Practice “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” drills regularly.

3. Prepare a “Go Bag.”
Each household member should have an accessible emergency kit with:

• Drinking water (at least 3 liters per person per day for 3 days)
• Non-perishable food (canned goods, biscuits, energy bars)
• Battery-powered flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid kit and essential medicines
• Whistle, face masks, and hand sanitizer
• Power bank and extra phone charger
• Copies of IDs, cash, and a small radio
• Extra clothing, blanket, and toiletries

4. Keep shoes and a flashlight beside your bed.
Many earthquake injuries come from stepping on broken glass during blackouts.

During the Quake: Stay Calm, Think Clearly

In any setting, remember these core principles:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
• Protect your head and neck.
• Stay put until the shaking stops.
• Avoid running—panic causes more accidents than tremors.
• Check surroundings before moving. Aftershocks can strike seconds later.

After the Quake: Assess and Act

1. Check for injuries. Provide first aid and call emergency services if needed (and available).
2. Inspect for hazards. Watch out for gas leaks, fires, or electrical sparks.
3. Communicate wisely. Use text messages to preserve phone battery and avoid network congestion.
4. Follow official instructions. Tune in to radio, TV, or government advisories before evacuating.
5. Stay alert for aftershocks. These may be strong enough to cause additional damage.

If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave calmly. Take your “Go Bag” and assist children, elderly, or those with disabilities.

“In an earthquake, panic is your biggest enemy; preparation—and presence of mind—are your best defenses.”

The Mindset That Saves Lives

Panic kills more than falling debris. The people who survive disasters are often those who stay composed and think clearly. Earthquakes are unpredictable—but preparation is not.

Train your mind before disaster strikes.
Visualize what you’ll do. Familiarize yourself with exits, stairwells, and emergency kits. Encourage your family to talk about disaster readiness—not as fear, but as empowerment.

Remember: safety is not a one-time act; it’s a lifestyle. Every small preparation you make today is a quiet promise to your loved ones—that when the ground shakes, you’ll know what to do.

Survival Insight:
Practicing earthquake drills reduces panic and improves response time during real disasters. Keep your “Go Bag” updated every six months and discuss your family’s evacuation plan regularly. Awareness, calm, and preparedness—these are your true life savers.