What is the first step to take when feeling an earthquake?

When you feel an earthquake, the golden and most important rule is to act quickly without hesitation. Since earthquakes are natural phenomena that occur suddenly, violently, and without warning, whether in broad daylight or in the middle of the night, immediate response is the first line of defense against serious injury [1]. There are no absolute guarantees of safety during earthquakes, but following a specific protocol significantly reduces the likelihood of danger.

Immediate Action: "Drop, Cover, and Hold On"

In most scenarios, the best way to keep yourself and your family members safe is to execute the "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" strategy as soon as you feel the first vibration [2]. These steps are designed to minimize unsafe movement during the quake:

• Drop: Drop immediately to the ground on your hands and knees. Doing so prevents you from falling due to violent seismic vibrations and places you in a more stable position that allows you to move intelligently.
• Cover: Look for protection over your head; the best is to hide under a sturdy table or solid desk. If no furniture is nearby, cover your head and neck using your arms. This action protects you from falling debris, which is the primary cause of most injuries during earthquakes [2].
• Hold On: Hold onto the shelter you are using for protection firmly. Be prepared to move with it if the earthquake causes it to shift, and maintain your position under the cover until the shaking stops completely [2].

Why is rapid response essential?

The importance of this response lies in the fact that injuries do not result only from major structural collapses, but are often caused by falling objects, shattered glass, or flying unsecured furniture. By dropping, you lower your center of gravity and avoid falling to the ground. By covering, you protect the most vulnerable parts of your body. Planning these steps in advance should be part of the family culture, as preparation reduces the intensity of the stress and anxiety that individuals may experience when a disaster occurs [1].

Additional safety considerations

If you are in bed, stay there and protect your head and neck with a pillow; do not try to get up, as walking during an earthquake increases the risk of falling [2]. If you are outdoors, look for an open area away from buildings, lampposts, and electrical wires. After the shaking stops, be cautious of secondary risks, as tremors can lead to floods, fires, or even landslides if you are in mountainous areas or on slopes where vegetation was damaged by previous fires [1] [3]. For more practical advice, you can review the guide Earthquakes: Family Guide for Preparedness and Protection in Jordan (Arabic).

Medical references

• Earthquakes
• Earthquakes: Before, During, and After
• Landslides and Mudslides and Your Safety