Safety Guide
Knowing how to drop, cover and hold on during an earthquake can save your life. This guide offers clear steps on what to do, especially in Australia’s varied environments.
Remember, quick action and following official advice help reduce risks. Stay calm, act safely, and prepare ahead to protect yourself and others.
Understanding the Drop Cover Hold On Method
The drop cover hold on method is the recommended safety action during an earthquake. When you feel shaking, immediately drop to the ground to avoid being knocked over. Then, take cover by getting under sturdy furniture or against an inside wall away from windows or heavy objects that could fall. Finally, hold on firmly until the shaking stops. This method minimises injury from falling or flying debris.
This approach is not just a generic recommendation but is backed by decades of research and real-life experience from seismic events globally. It addresses the most common causes of injury during earthquakes, which are falling objects, structural collapses, and loss of balance. By dropping to the ground, you reduce the likelihood of being thrown or falling, which can cause fractures or head injuries. Covering your head and neck protects vital areas from debris, while holding on ensures you stay in a protective position rather than being tossed around by violent shaking.
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Why Drop Cover Hold On Matters
Unlike running outside or standing still, dropping to the ground lowers your chance of being hurt. Covering protects your head and body from falling things. Holding on prevents you from being thrown around during the tremors. This simple, quick response is easy to remember and has saved many lives worldwide.
Many people instinctively try to flee buildings during shaking, which can be extremely dangerous. Stairwells may collapse, elevators can get stuck, and falling debris near exits can block escape routes. The drop cover hold on method keeps you safer inside, where you can avoid these hazards. Emergency responders and safety experts continually stress this because statistics show it reduces injuries and fatalities significantly compared to other reactions.
Step-by-Step Earthquake Safety
When you feel an earthquake start, don’t panic. Follow these steps carefully and confidently.
Step 1: Drop Immediately
As soon as the shaking begins, drop down onto your hands and knees. This position stops you from falling over and allows you to move if you need to. Avoid standing or running, as you could lose balance or be hit by falling objects.
Dropping quickly is crucial because earthquakes often strike without warning. Seconds count, and hesitating can increase risk. By getting low, you also lower your center of gravity, which helps you maintain stability during tremors. If you are in a crowded area, dropping to your knees helps prevent collisions with others and reduces the chance of panic spreading.
Step 2: Take Cover Safely
Find shelter under a sturdy table, desk, or bench to protect your head and neck. If no furniture is nearby, crouch against an interior wall away from glass, windows, mirrors, or heavy items that might fall. Cover your head and neck with your arms and hands. Avoid doorways as they may not provide adequate protection and could cause injury if the door swings.
Choosing the right cover is important. Furniture should be solid and stable enough to withstand shaking without collapsing. Lightweight or unstable items won’t provide adequate protection. If you are in a hazard-prone area, such as near tall bookcases or fragile decorations, prioritize moving away from these before the shaking starts if possible. If you have mobility challenges, plan your safe spots ahead so you can reach them quickly.
Step 3: Hold On Until the Shaking Stops
Grip the leg of the furniture you are under or keep your body tight to the wall. Holding on helps steady you and prevents injuries from sudden movements. Stay in this position until you are sure the earthquake has ended.
Holding on not only keeps your position stable but also reduces the risk of injury caused by the furniture shifting or collapsing. If you let go, you may be thrown off balance or exposed to falling debris. Staying still and maintaining your grip helps protect you through aftershocks, which often follow the initial quake.
Special Considerations for Different Environments
At Home or Indoors
Inside your home, avoid windows, glass, and heavy objects like bookcases or appliances. If you sleep in a multi-storey house, consider the safest spot near the bed but away from windows. Bedrooms should be checked regularly for hazards that could cause injury during shaking.
Preparing your home in advance can save lives. Secure heavy furniture to walls, place heavy items on low shelves, and use safety film on glass to reduce shattering. Keep emergency supplies accessible and ensure family members know safe spots. Practising drills helps everyone respond quickly and calmly.
At Work or School
In offices or classrooms, drop under your desk or table and hold on. Stay away from elevators and windows. If your workplace has an emergency plan, follow it but always prioritise drop cover hold on first during shaking.
Employers and school administrators should ensure that buildings meet earthquake safety standards and that staff and students are trained in response procedures. Regular drills increase readiness and reduce panic. Make sure emergency exits are clear and that emergency kits are stocked and accessible.
Outdoors
If you are outside when an earthquake strikes, move away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and power lines. Drop to the ground and protect your head. Stay in the open until the shaking stops and it is safe to move.
Being outdoors reduces the risk of injury from structural collapse but introduces hazards like falling branches or debris. Stay alert for hazards and avoid crowds or congested areas. After the shaking, watch for downed power lines or unstable structures before moving. Outdoor emergency kits can be helpful if you are in remote or wilderness areas.
After the Earthquake: What to Do Next
Once the shaking ends, remain calm and check yourself and others for injuries. Be prepared for aftershocks and drop cover hold on again if needed. Avoid using open flames or electrical equipment until you know it is safe. Listen to official warnings and instructions from emergency services. Inspect your surroundings for hazards like gas leaks, fires, or damaged structures before moving.
Communication is key after an earthquake. Use text messages or social media to contact family and emergency services if phone lines are congested. Have a plan for reunification with loved ones if separated. Keep emergency kits nearby with water, food, first aid supplies, and important documents.
Be aware that aftershocks can be strong and cause additional damage. Stay vigilant and ready to drop cover hold on again as necessary. Follow local authority guidance on evacuation or shelter-in-place decisions. Community support and cooperation can greatly improve outcomes after a seismic event.
If You Only Do Five Things
First, when the shaking starts, drop down immediately to protect yourself from falling. Second, cover your head and neck with your arms or by sheltering under sturdy furniture. Third, hold on tightly to your shelter or stay close to the wall. Fourth, stay in place until you are certain the earthquake has stopped. Finally, follow official advice and check for hazards before moving around.
These five actions form the core of earthquake survival and can be easily taught to children and adults alike. Practising these steps regularly ensures they become instinctive during an emergency, reducing panic and improving safety for everyone involved.
Encouragement to Prepare and Stay Informed
Earthquakes can happen without warning, but preparation helps reduce risk. Know the drop cover hold on steps and practise them with your family or workplace. Keep emergency kits ready and stay informed by checking updates from Australian emergency agencies. Your calm response and knowledge can make a real difference in safety.
In addition to physical preparedness, mental readiness is vital. Understanding the risks, knowing what to expect, and having a plan can alleviate fear and improve decision-making during a quake. Engage with community drills, attend safety workshops, and share information with neighbours to build resilience.
For more information on earthquake safety and preparedness, visit official websites such as Victoria State Emergency Service or Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
