Quick Answer
To keep calm during an earthquake while outdoors, focus on your breathing, assess your surroundings, and follow a clear decision-making process to minimize risks.
Assessing Your Situation
If you’re caught outdoors during an earthquake, quickly assess your surroundings to identify potential hazards such as falling debris, collapsing buildings, or power lines. Look for areas that are more stable, such as open fields or areas away from tall structures. Take note of your distance from any bodies of water, as they may become hazardous due to potential flooding.
Staying Safe and Calm
To maintain your composure, take slow, deep breaths and try to clear your mind. Avoid panicking, as this can cloud your judgment and increase the risk of making poor decisions. If you’re with others, communicate clearly and calmly to ensure everyone is on the same page. Use a simple, step-by-step approach to make decisions, such as identifying the nearest safe area and moving towards it.
Decision-Making and Evacuation
Once you’ve assessed your situation and identified a safe path, make a clear decision on how to proceed. If you’re in a high-risk area, such as near a tall structure or in a flood-prone zone, consider evacuating immediately. If you’re unable to evacuate, find a safe spot to wait for the earthquake to pass, such as under a sturdy table or against an interior wall of a building. Keep an eye on the surroundings and be prepared to adjust your plan if necessary.
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