What is the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" method?

What is the "Drop, Cover, and Hold" method?

Mark Benthien (Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach, Southern California Earthquake Center ) gives expert video advice on: What are the safest places inside during an earthquake?; Will standing under a door frame adequately protect me during an earthquake? and more...

During an earthquake, drop, cover and hold, anywhere you are, is the best thing to do. Drop to the ground before the earthquake drops you, as you won't be able to walk around much during the strong shaking. Take cover if possible underneath a desk or table or other strong sturdy. Cover your head with your hands and arms and hold onto what you're underneath as it might start to move, and you want to make sure you're moving with it. That is the drop, cover and hold method you ought to use during an earthquake.