What to do During an Earthquake
DUCK, DROP, COVER, AND HOLD ON.
DUCK under a strong piece of furniture (tables or desks) if at all possible. Most injuries during earthquakes are results of being hit by something falling on you.
DROP to the floor to avoid falling or being thrown down. Once the ground starts moving it's hard to keep your balance.
COVER yourself with anything that may protect you from flying glass and debris. You can use clothing, blankets, cushions, or furniture.
HOLD ON to whatever you're using for cover. The ground motion may be violent. Get away from glass, book cases or anything heavy that could fall over on you. Doorways used to be recommended, but most experts advise to stay away from them. Doors can slam shut with bone crushing force and smash fingers.
Resist the urge to run outside. While the ground is moving and immediately afterward, the greatest danger is of being injured by taking a fall or by being hit by a falling piece of building as you exit. If you smell gas or when the shaking stops, calmly and carefully make your way out and get clear of the building. Before you leave get shoes on, or you will be walking on broken glass and debris. If your in a crowd stay put, stay clam, and take what cover you can where you are. In a crowd the greatest dangers are panic and the rush for an exit.
If you are outside stay there. Stay away from buildings, bridges, power lines, telephone poles, anything that can fall on you. If you're in a parking lot do not stand between parked cars, ground motion can bounce the cars together.