Jazzlike_Run_5466 t1_itxkldb wrote on October 27, 2022 at 1:06 AM

Ive been in several massive earthquakes an early warning system would be a lifesaver for many. They say in the event of an earthquake get under a desk or doorway etc I tried to get under a doorway first but the door is flapping and you cant really stand up straight anyway to navigate to a better spot.

jamred555 t1_ity7ogq wrote on October 27, 2022 at 4:20 AM

You actually don't want to stand in a doorway during an earthquake. You want to protect yourself from falling objects

0mnipresentz t1_itz7jar wrote on October 27, 2022 at 11:53 AM

Actually what you wanna do is run, and just keep running. Forest Gump it.

Sparkykun t1_itxlneo wrote on October 27, 2022 at 1:14 AM

Get under table only applies if you need to run downstairs at least four stories or use an elevator

masamunecyrus t1_ity95q8 wrote on October 27, 2022 at 4:35 AM

It really depends on context.

In a standard American wood-framed house? They're flexible and won't collapse. Get under a table.
In an unreinforced brick building? Get out now, and don't stop to think about it.
In a downtown area with lots of skyscrapers? They're probably engineered to survive an earthquake. Avoid being in the center of a large room (large spans of unsupported ceilings are liable to cave in), but don't go outside until the shaking stops or at least subsides. Panes of broken glass falling 20 stories onto your head when you're on the sidewalk will hurt worse than some falling ceiling tiles.

Government advice usually has to cater to the lowest common denominator, because the public will not and cannot understand nuance. There is also a need to avoid tragedy of the commons (this is why running from tornadoes is not advised, because if everyone tried to flee, it'd clog the roads and people would drive erratically while fleeing, creating even more victims).

jamred555 t1_ity80nr wrote on October 27, 2022 at 4:24 AM

No, you don't want to evacuate the building, you're less likely to be injured if you stay where you are and protect yourself from flying objects.

My-Left-Plate t1_ityduxr wrote on October 27, 2022 at 5:27 AM

That’s in a city what if I have a big backyard shouldn’t I just go outside?

jamred555 t1_ityiroh wrote on October 27, 2022 at 6:29 AM

Sure if you're right by the door, but it may be difficult to walk if the earthquake is significant. And watch out for glass windows

Source: expert advice I've heard, earthquake drills, common sense