The number of people dying in natural disasters is lower today than it was in the past. However, if you can keep your head and find the right place to stay when the ground starts shaking, you might be able to survive.
The biggest danger is falling pieces. Since earthquakes happen suddenly without warning, you have to think quickly to stay safe. If you are indoors during an earthquake, remember: "drop, cover and hold on."
Drop: When you feel the ground shaking or something crashing, get down on your hands and knees. Quickly crawl(缓慢行进) under a strong desk or table nearby. Don't try to run downstairs or walk to a safer place because you might fall. If you are in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow until the shaking stops.
Cover: Use one hand to cover your neck and head. If not, move towards a wall inside the building, not the outside walls with windows. Stay on your hands and knees, keeping your hand over your neck for protection.
Hold on: Hold onto your desk or table with one hand while keeping the other over your neck and head. Be ready to move with the desk or table. .
However, if you are outside, driving or at the beach, trying to find something to hide under may not be an option.
A. This keeps you from falling over.
B. If it is not strong enough, turn to another one.
C. Earthquakes can still be destructive, though.
D. Then crawl under a desk or table if there's one close by.
E. Advanced technology provides many ways for us to stay safer.
F. Remember, don't try to move until the shaking has completely stopped.
G. The safest place during an earthquake is likely an open field with no trees around.
