During the shaking
- Drop onto your hands and knees before the shaking knocks you down.
- Cover your head and neck with one arm. Get under a sturdy table or desk if one is close; otherwise get down next to an interior wall, away from windows and things that can fall.
- Hold on to your shelter (or your head and neck) until the shaking stops.
Do not run outside while the ground is shaking, and do not stand in a doorway — most injuries come from falling objects and glass.
When the shaking stops
- Check yourself and others for injuries; give first aid if you can.
- Expect aftershocks — Drop, Cover and Hold On again each time.
- If the building is damaged, leave calmly by the stairs (never the lift) and go to your assembly point.
- Stay away from damaged walls, power lines and gas leaks. Follow instructions from the authorities.
Be ready
Fix heavy furniture to walls, keep an emergency bag, agree a family or class meeting point, and practise the drill at least twice a year.
General guidance for awareness only. It does not replace hands-on training, your organisation's procedures or advice from emergency services. In an emergency in Pakistan call 1122 (Rescue), 16 (Fire brigade) or 115 (Edhi ambulance).
Source: PHSO · Last updated 11 Oct 2026
