The Postal Service wants you to know what to do if an earthquake strikes the area where you live and work.
Two recent quakes in central California served as a reminder about the importance of being prepared.
The July 4 and July 5 earthquakes, which registered magnitudes of 6.4 and 7.1, respectively, spurred more than 1,400 aftershocks.
If you experience an earthquake, here’s what you should do:
• Drop to your hands and knees to protect yourself from being knocked down.
• Cover your head and neck and take shelter underneath a sturdy table or desk. If no shelter is available, crawl to an interior wall and away from windows.
• Hold on until the shaking stops and be ready to move if your shelter becomes hazardous.
Additionally, you shouldn’t run outside during an earthquake because you could get hit with falling debris.
Likewise, stay away from doors. You might get injured if people panic and bolt for the exits.
If you’re near the ocean during an earthquake, get to higher ground because quakes often trigger tsunamis.
If you’re driving, stay in your vehicle and steer away from bridges, buildings and overpasses.
The USPS Earthquake Preparedness Guide, available on the National Preparedness Blue page, has additional information.